Scotland has fallen silent to remember thousands of people who had their lives cut short during the coronavirus pandemic.
People across the country have taken part in the minute’s silence to mark the National Day of Reflection on the first year anniversary since the first UK-wide lockdown was imposed.
More than 7,500 people are said to have lost their lives due to coronavirus in Scotland since the crisis emerged last year.
Frontline staff stood socially distanced outside Scottish hospitals and care homes as the country fell silent to reflect on what has been an utterly horrendous year at midday today.
Vaccination centres also took to the time to pause efforts to protect Scots from the virus that has claimed so many.
A floral ‘Rainbow of Hope’ emerged at The Mound in Edinburgh ahead of the day of remembrance.
All of the political party leaders came together at the Scottish Parliament to remember those who have lost their lives.
Scottish MPs at Westminster also fell silent along with colleagues south of the border.
Charity Marie Curie is urging Scots to take part in a candlelight vigil from their home at 8pm this evening.
Some of Scotland’s most iconic buildings will be bathed in a yellow light to remember - from the Scottish Parliament buildings to the Kelpies.
Marie Curie executive director Meredith Niles said: “Millions of us have been unable to say a proper goodbye or comfort our family, friends and colleagues in their grief.
“With so many of us losing someone close, our shared sense of loss is incomparable to anything felt in our lifetime.
“We need to acknowledge this and recognise we are not alone.
“Although our losses will be felt for years to come, the National Day of Reflection gives us a moment to reflect on our collective loss as well as taking time to support those close to us who are dealing with feelings of isolation and loss.”
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