The first of 15 cherry blossoms has been planted to commemorate those who have lost their lives to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The first tree was planted next to Towneley Hall following a multi-faith service which was led by the Bishop of Burnley, the Right Reverend Philip North and attended by representatives from Burnley Council, other local organisations and local people.

A total of 15 trees will be planted - one for each ward across the borough - in Ightenhill Park, Padiham Memorial Park, Queens Park, Scott Park, Thompson Park and Towneley Park.

Council leader Councillor Afrasiab Anwar said: "We're planting memorial trees across our borough and because Towneley Hall and park is so close to many local people's hearts we felt this was a fitting place to start.

"Cherry trees were chosen because of their bright colours and beautiful blossoms.

"These trees will be a living memorial to the victims of Covid-19 and a long-lasting and lovely tribute to them."

Earlier this year Burnley Council’s Executive authorised spending £3,000 on the commemorative saplings.

The cherry trees will flower in late March/early April, marking the anniversary of the beginning of the pandemic.

Each tree will have an inscribed stone tablet and be planted around with native daffodils.

The project is part of a wider £18,000 tree planting to combat climate change agreed by the senior councillors.