THE UK came together on Sunday evening for the biggest and loudest Clap for Carers as the NHS turns 72 amid the greatest test of its lifetime.
People around the country were urged to celebrate health and care workers and other essential workers this weekend to mark the 72nd birthday of the NHS this weekend.
Buildings were also lit up blue around the nation and, at 5pm on Sunday, July 5, people took to their doorsteps and gardens one more time to take a moment to say a heartfelt thank you.
One 92-year-old woman who used to work at the Wrexham Maelor remembered the NHS when it was established.
Mrs. Audrey Carmichael nee Madoc-Jones
Mrs. Audrey Carmichael nee Madoc-Jones, who is from Wrexham but now lives in Rhyl, clapped every Thursday during lockdown to show her appreciation, and this weekend was no different.
Daughter Harriet Challis-Jones said: "She worked in the X-ray department of the War Memorial Hospital in Wrexham from 1947 to 1965 and remembers when the NHS was established.
"She is currently working on a book; which she hopes to have published next year; about Wrexham and district, and the many fond memories of her colleagues and friends from that time.
"She was from the Wrexham but now lives in Rhyl. She feels a strong connection to Wrexham and her days of working for the NHS there. She told me how, when they were first employed by the NHS, there were queues all down the corridors and they all worked late, to try to get through the huge number of patients who would never have been able to afford to go to hospital before then."
Joe Catt aged 10 Pentre Halkyn
On Saturday evening people were also encouraged to commemorate coronavirus victims by putting a light or LED candle in their window.
Claire Pickering-Stages said: "Good turn out in Bryn Clwyd, Mynydd Isa."
UNISON general secretary Dave Prentis said: “Communities and families have been devastated by the virus, which has taken too many lives, kept loved ones apart and made people fear for the future.
Rhys Dodd
“But we can come together, as demonstrated by the weekly claps from our doorsteps and balconies showing our appreciation for those who’ve been keeping us safe.
“This is an opportunity to give thanks and thoughts for all those who’ve lost their lives, as well as recognising the wonders of the health service, social care sector and other essential public services.
“As the lockdown eases, we must all remain careful; behaving sensibly is vital if the NHS is to be protected and the virus is to be kept at bay.
“This weekend is all about celebrating and showing appreciation for our wonderful NHS.”
Poppy Hughes and Josh Williams banging their pans for the NHS in Llangollen
Isabella and Henri Charlie clapping for the NHS
Keane Williams from Caergwrle
Image from Elizabeth Anne Jones
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