MEMORIALS could soon be popping up across south Essex in honour of those who lost their lives to Covid-19.

The proposals come as bosses across the county paid their respects to the hundreds of people who died during the outbreak, reminding families that their loved ones won’t be forgotten even once the pandemic comes to an end.

The Office of National Statistics (ONS) have revealed that from the beginning of March up until the end of June, there have been 368 deaths across Southend, Rochford and Canvey; alongside 203 deaths in Basildon.

Basildon Central and Pipps Hill saw 20 lives lost, Southend Central saw 19 and Canvey saw 41 deaths during this period.

Due to a time lag in the reporting of figures, caused by the length of time taken between date of death and the date it is officially registered, the true death toll may not be revealed for several months.

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Paying tribute to the heroes who have passed, Castle Point Council leader Norman Smith, said: “We have lost some really key members who were truly the heart of our society.

"We mustn’t forget these people and somehow when this is over we want to have a permanent memorial for them.

"This year’s remembrance day will be one we remember not only our fallen soldiers, but those we have lost in this war too. In this war we cannot see the enemy.”

Basildon mayor David Burton-Sampson, added: “We’ve never seen a situation like this before, and every single death has been extremely sad.

“We stand and support the families and friends who have lost their loved ones during this difficult time- I’m currently working with the council on ways we can remember these individuals, our brave community and the key workers who have been on the frontline.

"The people we’ve lost will not be just a number.”

Trevor Harp, cabinet member for health and adult social care in Southend, added: “My deepest sympathies are with the victims and their families, it’s been a terrible time in our lives.”