Tribute to Colleagues Worldwide this Workers' Memorial Day

A special service is set to take place in South Tyneside this week paying tribute to the millions of lives lost in the workplace.

Workers' Memorial Day is a global awareness event commemorating those who have been killed, injured, disabled or left unwell by their work.

South Tyneside Council is marking the event with a short service taking place on Friday 28 April, at 11am, at the Workers' Memorial Plaque in North Marine Park, South Shields.

It will be led by the Mayor of South Tyneside, Councillor Pat Hay, Rev Lesley Jones and supported by local union representatives. Wreaths will be laid.

The Mayor said: "Workers' Memorial Day is an important day that gives us an opportunity to remember those who have died, been injured or left ill due to their work.

"It is a real tragedy that work-related injuries or fatalities still occur in this day and age, with this event also highlighting the importance of health and safety at work and reminding people that so many workplace accidents and illnesses can be prevented.

"This week we take a moment to reflect and honour the many lives that have been lost by workers from all professions and to think about the devastating impact on the families, friends and work colleagues that they leave behind."

International Workers' Memorial Day is annually observed on 28 April. The theme is 'Remember the dead, fight for the living.'

The Council is joining unions, organisations, employees, community groups and others around the world to mark the day which coincides with the anniversary of the Occupational Safety and Health Act.

All are welcome to attend the local event on Friday (28 April) at 11am, in North Marine Park.