Dwyfor Meirionnydd MP Liz Saville Roberts, who will mark today’s National Day of Reflection by taking part in a minute’s silence, has told constituents brighter days lie ahead.

At 12pm today, a minute’s silence will be observed across the UK to pay tribute to those who have died, those who continue to suffer, their families and friends. The event has been organised by the Marie Curie charity.

Speaking ahead of the event, Mrs Saville Roberts hailed the success of the vaccine rollout in offering protection against Covid-19, but cautioned against complacency, warning that hard-fought gains mustn’t be thrown away.

“The Covid-19 pandemic has been a health disaster of proportions that we have never previously experienced, overshadowing even the civilian casualties of the Second World War," she said.

“The loss of loved ones, family members and friends is difficult to deal with at the best of times, but during the past year, millions of people have been unable to properly grieve for those they loved.

“I welcome the opportunity to support this National Day of Reflection. A year on since the start of the first lockdown, it is a timely moment to reflect on the past year and remember everyone we have lost and those living with the grief.

“I would like to extend my sympathies to all those families in Dwyfor Meirionnydd who have been affected in one way or another by the pandemic and reiterate my sincere thanks to all frontline workers who have given so much this past year.

“We have come so far, and we have lost so many. The success of the vaccine rollout offers real hope. But we must not waste the progress we have made. By sticking to the rules and respecting each other we can look forward to brighter days ahead.”