Memorial space dedicated to two Vale of Glamorgan staff members who have died from Covid-19 and to those whose lives have been affected by COVID has been made at Porthkerry Park.

The memorial consists of a mini orchard of cherry, plum and apple trees and a memorial bench located near the Ranger's Cottage.

Donations of trees will also be made to town and community councils in the Vale when the planting season resumes in the autumn, so they can construct their own memorials.

Memories of Keith Hayes and Barrie Hopkins

"Keith Hayes was a care attendant who worked at Rondel House Day Centre. Keith had worked in social care for a number of years before joining the Vale of Glamorgan Council in 2016.

In his role with the Council, Keith supported dozens of people with Dementia to lead happier and more independent lives. His work made a huge difference to their wellbeing and quality of life.

He is fondly remembered by colleagues and users of Rondel House for being a real people person, who would always take the time to build genuine relationships.

Always the first to welcome new users, the rapport that Keith would build played a huge part in the success of the day service. His jokes, stories and famous quizzes will be sadly missed. Keith died in January 2021 after testing positive for Covid in December.

He is survived by his wife Liz, his children Bethan and Owen and two young grandsons. Keith has been described by his colleagues as a real family man who always looked forward to his holidays and time with his family. He is and will remain deeply missed by colleagues.

Barrie (Baz) Hopkins was a popular driver who worked in waste management. He's been described as a larger than life character who was respected amongst the workforce, based at the Alps depot. Baz had driven for most of his career and spent over 20 years driving buses before joining the Council 9 years ago. Baz loved driving for the Council and he was very committed to his job, on the frontline, collecting black bag waste. He was always a very skilled and dependable driver. Baz drove a 26 tonne vehicle daily, doing a job he really enjoyed. He regularly worked on the winter maintenance service as well, working all hours ensuring the roads were gritted and safe for the public to use. He was proud of his work on this service and often remarked about keeping the Vale safe and the roads clear for the public, during adverse weather. Baz was married to Tessa and they had three children, two daughters Shauna and Becky and a son called Dave. Baz loved his family and was a rock for all of them. Baz loved rugby, especially watching Wales play in his conservatory where he was often found perched having his favourite tipple. This only lasted whilst Wales were winning however, as he was known to storm out now and then, particularly when they were losing! Baz was a true gentleman who will never be forgotten by those who knew him."