PREVIEW

Opera singer Camilla Kerslake amazed commuters with a surprise performance at St. Pancras International train station on 29 February.

Singing a rendition of Pie Jesu, the bestselling soprano brought the station to a standstill to mark this weekend’s Day of Reflection - a day remembering those who died during the pandemic.

The BRIT Award nominated singer said: “My grandma and my uncle didn't have funerals because they died during the pandemic, and I feel there's not been a full stop for them.

“There wasn't a moment for me to pin my grief to, or a day where our family could come together to celebrate their lives. I find that hard. Reflection can come in many forms, and music in particular can be a powerful trigger for emotion and memory.

“To be a part of the build-up to the Day of Reflection and reach people, who like me are still feeling a great sense of grief, has been an honour. I hope the public will join me on Sunday and take a minute’s silence at midday.”

The surprise performance is one of several to have taken place this week across the UK, ahead of the Day of Reflection.

Choirs have carried out performances at City Hall in Belfast, Cardiff Castle, and The National Wallace Monument in Stirling, to encourage the public to remember those who died during the pandemic.

From the start of the pandemic, Marie Curie offered increased support following a rise in deaths from Covid-19.

Matthew Reed, Marie Curie’s chief executive, said: “With our fourth Day of Reflection just days away, Marie Curie is urging the nation to take a moment to remember all the people who died during the pandemic and to show support for those who are bereaved.”

The UK’s leading end of life charity will lead this year’s annual Day of Reflection on 3 March.