International Workers Memorial Day is commemorated each year by trade unions across the world.

It remembers those who have lost their lives at work, as well as those who have suffered injury, illness or disease through their employment.

A special wreath laying ceremony was held at South Lanarkshire Council’s HQ today, attended by trade union representatives, council officials and councillors. A minute’s silence was then observed by those in attendance.

This year’s theme is ‘health and safety is a fundamental workers' right’.

Chair of South Lanarkshire’s Joint Trade Union Committee, Maureen Kennedy, said: “As we remember the dead we need to fight for the living.

“We will as Trade Union activists continue to campaign for improvements and challenge issues that risk threatening the health and safety of our members.”

South Lanarkshire Council’s Chief Executive, Cleland Sneddon, said: “On this day we remember those who have died at work throughout history and we increase our determination to prevent such deaths in the future.

“Today allows us to pause and remember them – and strive to ensure we continue to provide safe working practices for all of our colleagues.”