‘Public should not go to hospitals to clap’

Health bosses have pleaded with the public not to visit hospital premises as part of the renamed Clap for Heroes tribute to key workers.

They have urged people to instead stay at home during the renewed Thursday evening applause, previously named Clap for our Carers, adding: “This is the key way you can support key workers and also help to minimise the spread of the virus.”

South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust, which is treating similar numbers of coronavirus patients to last March’s first wave, is also concerned about potential added pressures on its services through supporters slipping in winter.

Medical director Shaz Wahid said: “We are very grateful for all the ongoing support we have received from the public.

"The original clap for carers was a great weekly boost to our teams and brought the nation together in thanking our frontline workers for their amazing efforts during the pandemic.

"However, Covid-19 is spreading rapidly in our communities and we have a new strain which we know spreads faster than before.

"So we are asking the public to not come down to our hospitals sites and instead stay at home.

"This is the key way you can support key workers and also help to minimise the spread of the virus.

“Over the coming weeks and months we all just need to continue to do our bit and remember the basics.

"Wear a facemask, wash your hands regularly, maintain social distancing and stay at home except for essentials, such as work or food shopping.”