Saluting key workers in style
In what was likely a last hurrah for the Clap for Carers phenomenon, Mid Argyll hailed local heroes in style.
During the 10 weeks of lockdown, people across the UK have been saluting the NHS, carers and key workers by rattling the pots and pans, playing instruments and clapping each Thursday at 8pm.
As lockdown measures begin to be eased by the Scottish and UK governments, last week’s is likely to be the last salute.
Echoing a parade of commercial vehicles though Lochgilphead a few weeks back, the convoy on Thursday May 28 attracted 38 vehicles.
The parade set off from Ardfenaig care home in Ardrishaig and headed for Mid Argyll Hospital for the final salute to NHS staff before travelling back through Lochgilphead. The event was spearheaded by Robert MacKay of West Coast Motors, who said: ‘As we are now easing out of lockdown measures we thought we would do it in style and go out with a bang as a special show of appreciation.
‘Our aim was to get as many key workers involved as possible. As well as West Coast Motors, vehicles from Argyll and Bute Council, Stag Garage, MacLeod Construction, Renewi, Fergusons butchers, Royal Mail, McKerrals, Scottish Co-op, Jewsons, Murray Smoked Products, McNaughtons, the MS Centre, Menzies Distribution, A & L McRae, Police Scotland, H M Coastguard (Tarbert), D A MAcDonald, C & J Shellfish, Coille Haulage, Keystore (Ardrishaig), Stuart Crawford Joiners and Scottish Water took part.’
Robert continued: ‘It was fantastic and raised so many smiles throughout the route, but most importantly at Mid Argyll Hospital.
‘A huge thank you to all the key workers across the west coast and beyond who have worked so hard every day and kept spirits high throughout the lockdown.’