Eden's Biomes glow blue for the NHS

The landmark date is on Sunday (July 5) and is being celebrated in many ways around the country, encouraged by the Together coalition (www.together.org.uk).

The aim is to remember those who have been lost, thank all those who are helping the country get through the pandemic crisis and bring people together in a national moment of connection.

Numerous other buildings and landmarks will be lit over the weekend and people will be encouraged to place a light – a lamp, torch or LED candle – in their windows. There will also be a minute’s silence as a thanksgiving for the legacy and lives of all those we have lost to this devastating virus.

Tomorrow (Sunday) at 5pm, Clap for Carers will be returning for one day only and afterwards people are being encouraged to stay outside and chat to their neighbours.

The lighting of the Biomes follows yesterday's unveiling of a giant "Thank You" message on the roof of Eden's Link building. This was created by the Eden team to express its gratitude to everyone helping people and communities through the coronavirus pandemic and all the challenges that have arisen from it.

Peter Stewart, the Eden Project’s Executive Director, said: “We are joining in the spirit of the national moment and showing our appreciation to all the unsung heroes of the age with a bold and simple statement of thanks.

“We thank the selfless people who are helping the country through the crisis, all those in our wonderful NHS, the care workers, the key workers, the volunteers, the neighbours, the family members and friends.”

Eden is welcoming in NHS and care workers free of charge - but they must be pre-booked.

Pre-booking online is also essential for existing Eden Project Members and Passholders while new visitors can also book via the website, www.edenproject.com,  but availability is limited.

Timed ticketing has been successfully introduced to stagger entries and help maintain effective social distancing.

During national lockdown, Eden brought neighbours together in a safe way on June 6 and 7 by running The Big Virtual Lunch.

Six million people took part last year (2019) in The Big Lunch - Eden’s biggest outreach programme – the thanksgiving weekend for neighbours and communities.

In recent weeks Eden staff have been among teams of volunteers transforming the gardens of care homes run by Cornwall Care. Eden, Cornwall Care and The Cornwall College Group have worked closely together on the scheme.