TV stars saved by the NHS

THESE celebrities want to pay tribute to our NHS heroes. The pandemic has highlighted just how vital our medical marvels are to Britain. Every one of the stars featured has a story of how the service has helped them. Strictly judge Shirley Ballas, presenter Victoria Derbyshire and comedian Alex Brooker are among those who have had vital support in their darkest hours.

And today they reveal why they want to thanks the NHS. They will feature this week in one-off BBC special Dear NHS Superstars. A source told us: “From the heartfelt to the hilarious, the celebrities share stories of the personal encounters they have had throughout the years with healthcare workers.

“They speak candidly as they show their admiration, respect and thanks to the incredible doctors, nurses, midwives, porters and other NHS who have touched their lives.”

THE National Health Service is this country’s greatest achievement.

Celebrities pay tribute in today’s paper and tell how the NHS saved or changed their lives.

Their stories are deeply touching and so inspirational.

And virtually every family in the UK can say the same. There must be someone close to you who has reason to give thanks to the NHS.

The coronavirus crisis put our health service under the microscope like never before. And our doctors, nurses, technicians and support staff have responded magnificently.

Their reward from the Government so far has been the reimposition of car parking charges for hospital staff.

And there have been vague promises of more cash to tackle a potential second wave of Covid-19.

It is not good enough.

The public expects NHS workers to be rewarded with more than flowery words of gratitude.

This week, Boris Johnson will mark a year since he became PM.

It is said he will give seats in the House of Lords to some of his biggest political supporters. Even Ian Botham is set to get a peerage for backing the Leave campaign, it is claimed.

We suggest Mr Johnson has got his priorities skewed. It is now time for the NHS to get their rewards. Medals are certainly in order.

So is hard cash. France has given its health workers a big pay rise. Who would begrudge the same for our wonderful NHS staff?