Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser
Tribute in lights
Coatdyke viaduct was lit up in NHS blue in a show of support for frontline health staff and key workers to coincide with the weekly round of applause.
The railway bridge, near University Hospital Monklands, was specially illuminated at the start of the 8pm “clap for carers” to honour the dedication and tireless efforts of medics and staff leading the battle against coronavirus. It remained lit for three hours, with the striking display by the Stage Group at the 160-year-old, Grade B-listed structure also including a loveheart symbol.
The viaduct to the east of Coatdyke station – which last year benefited from £1 million of strengthening and repairs – was chosen to be illuminated for reasons including its proximity to the Airdrie hospital which houses one of Scotland’s four regional infectious diseases units and “is at the centre of the struggle to save lives during the pandemic”.
It was among a number of Network Rail structures and stations across the UK to be lit up for 8pm applause, which also saw station and train staff and British Transport Police officers come together for the weekly ritual.
Monklands’ director of hospital services, Margaret Meek, said: “We are grateful for the support from the public at this time, which is appreciated by everyone in the NHS on the frontline in the fight against Covid-19.
“Lighting up some of the nation’s stations and iconic bridges in blue is a great gesture of solidarity and support, and it’s a real boost to all of us knowing that we have so much backing from right across the country for the work that we’re doing.”
Scotland’s Railway managing director Alex Hynes added: “Coatdyke viaduct looked fantastic as we lit it blue to show our support for the vital and incredible work being done by NHS staff at University Hospital Monklands and all across Scotland.
“We are grateful to all key workers across the country, including those in our railway family, who are playing a massive role in supporting the country at this time.
“The stories of bravery and dedication shown by care workers, staff in the NHS and everyone else who is working to keep our people safe, and to give comfort and support where it is needed, are truly humbling.”