Castle glows blue to mark Big Clap tribute to our key workers

A SPLASH of colour was added to the weekly Big Clap tribute to our carers, lifesavers and key workers.

Caerphilly Castle was one of the iconic buildings bathed in blue light by way of tribute.

The simple words ‘diolch’ (thanks) summed up everyone’s gratitude.

The national #lightitblue campaign has been organised by leaders from the events and entertainment industry to show a simultaneous display of gratitude for those working tirelessly to look after Britons battling Covid19.

The Welsh historic monuments organisation Cadw joined in the campaign using the spectacular backdrop of Caerphilly Castle.

Last night was Week 3 of the Big Clap tribute to those working so hard during the current coronavirus pandemic.

As has now become customary, some went to the window, some stood on their doorsteps and others walked to the roadside - observing the correct social distancing rules.

Thursday, 8pm, has quickly carved its place in the weekly calendar as a very special day and time.

The nation has been united in coming together as one for the weekly tribute to our carers and lifesavers.

United by a few social media hashtags - #ClapForOurCarers #ClapForNHS #Clapforkeyworkers - and a sincere desire to say thank-you, the weekly tribute once again echoed loudly throughout the land.

While many took to their front steps, windows or balconies, others marked the occasion in the privacy of their living room or kitchen.

The Clap for our Carers was created by Annemarie Plas, who first had the idea after seeing footage of a similar tribute in the Netherlands.

She used social media to spread word of the campaign, with millions of people across the country participating over the last two weeks.

A Dutch yoga teacher living in London, she has suggested that the UK continues to clap at 8pm every Thursday throughout the crisis to show continued support for the people working under extremely difficult circumstances.

The accent was very much on ‘make a noise’, with many adding to the applause by blowing whistles, sounding hooters and banging pots and pans.

The Echo last week produced a rainbow banner poster to help people mark the event.

In many cases it has been given pride of place in the front window, or waved from the doorstep.

■ Don’t forget to check the website - https://thanksamillionnhs.co.uk/