Northampton to pay tribute to key workers with final Clap for Carers on NHS' 72nd birthday

People across Northampton will be showing their thanks to key workers during the final Clap for Carers on the NHS' 72nd birthday today (Sunday, July 5).

The nation will be paying tribute to everyone who has worked throughout the coronavirus pandemic with one last simultaneous round of applause at 5pm.

Northampton General Hospital will be releasing a video on social media to say 'thank you' to the community while East Midlands Ambulance Service will also mark the occasion on its Facebook and Twitter pages.

Meanwhile, the chapel bells at St Andrew's Hospital will be rung for five minutes by chaplain Rev Philip Evans as the charity honours those who did so much during such a scary time.

Church bells have been a rare sound over the last few months, as places of worship have been closed," he said.

"We wanted to honour the occasion and say thanks to all of our nurses, doctors, therapists, and all other key workers for the work they’ve done throughout this pandemic across Northamptonshire.”

A nationwide minute’s silence was held yesterday evening (Saturday) when people will be asked to light a candle in remembrance of all who have died during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The chapel at St Andrew's Hospital on Billing Road is open from 4pm to 9pm to enable patients and staff to come and light a candle and have their time of reflection, supported by a chaplain.

Patients who are unable to access the grounds will also be able to take part, as the chaplain will light a candle on their behalf.

At St Andrew’s Healthcare, staff have worked throughout the pandemic, providing support and care for our patients, the majority of whom come from the NHS, as well as their carers and families.

Chief executive Katie Fisher said: “Over the last few months our health service has had to content with the greatest challenge in its history.

"The country has been kept running thanks to the dedicated work from our health and social care workers, as well as fellow key workers.

"I will personally be honouring all of them this weekend, whilst also remembering the thousands of people who sadly passed away during this outbreak.”