The University of Winchester will be thanking its staff, students, the wider community and the NHS by hosting a 'Beacon of Hope' event on the evening of Wednesday 2 December.
The display will mark the end of the current national lockdown period and also marks a transition period to help facilitate students being able to return home safely in line with the Government's approach to controlling the spread of Covid-19.
Two single beams of light will emanate from the University's King Alfred and West Downs quarters from 5pm, symbolising hope after what has been a hugely challenging year for students, universities and communities across the country.
The University's Vice Chancellor, Professor Joy Carter, CBE DL, said: "This display is one of the ways we are sharing our gratitude, firstly to our staff and students to thank them for their strength, hard work and compassion during these extraordinary times.
"We are also endlessly grateful for the support of the wider community, the NHS and all key workers in helping us with university life. Covid-19 has had a huge impact on so many people across Winchester and the surrounding areas and through these beacons we also remember those who have lost loved ones and those who have been ill during this time.
"We hope that the whole University community and the City of Winchester will join us in sharing in this moment of gratitude and reflection as we prepare for the festive period with a real sense of hope for 2021."
In addition to the measures in place to help keep the campus and community safe, the University will be introducing testing for students from Thursday 4 December as part of the Government's nationwide scheme to support the safe travel of students in the run up to Christmas.
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