Special garden dedicated to South Shields care worker who died of covid aged just 40

South Tyneside Council leader Cllr Tracey Dixon, deputy leader Cllr Joan Atkinson, Cllr Anne Hetherington, and Vicki Pattison, at Clare Blake's memorial garden, Clasper Court, South Shields.

Clare Blake who worked at Clasper Court Extra Care facility in South Shields, was just 40 years old when died in January 2021 after contracting Covid-19.

Residents and colleagues were devastated to lose the ‘brilliant and dedicated’ care worker described as ‘the life and soul’ of the place.

Now the garden at Clare’s place of work has been re-developed as a lasting tribute to her, which will give those who knew her space to remember her.

Her brother, Tony Blake, said the family were touched by the effort made in creating such a ‘fitting tribute’ to his sister.

“Clare loved being outside and in gardens in particular,” he said.

"She spent a lot of time in her own garden and she regularly arranged activities for the residents in the garden at Clasper Court so this is a very fitting tribute.

“A lot of effort has gone into making this garden a very special place. It is lovely for staff and tenants to have such a peaceful area to enjoy, reflect and remember Clare.”

South Tyneside Council said the garden has been given a much-needed make-over and the colourful area now features a pergola, hanging baskets, bird baths and bird houses.

A sculpture of silver geese provided by Clare’s family takes pride of place, while a plaque has also been dedicated to her by the council.

Council leader Councillor Tracey Dixon, said paid tribute to Clare’s outstanding work helping others.

“Clare was a brilliant and dedicated care worker who always put the needs of those she supported ahead of herself,” she said.

“The loss of every life to covid is a tragedy. But we will remember them.

“Staff remember Clare as ‘the life and soul’ of Clasper Court and this beautiful space is a living legacy to Clare and the outstanding work she did on behalf of those she cared for.”

:: In 2020, all NHS and care staff and key workers that live and care for people in South Tyneside were given the Honorary Freedom of the Borough.

South Tyneside Council chiefs also previously said they will look at ways of remembering all those who lost their lives to coronavirus in the borough.

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