Royal reward: Queen grants NHS George Cross
The Queen, enjoying the Royal Windsor Horse Show yesterday, has awarded the George Cross to the National Health Services of the UK, recognising all NHS staff in all four nations
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will celebrate the 73rd anniversary of the NHS at a service of thanksgiving before hosting a tea at Buckingham Palace.
The service at St Paul's Cathedral will celebrate the NHS'S contribution to the country during Covid-19, reflecting on the work and achievement of health staff, volunteers and carers.
William and Kate will join guests including leading figures in the NHS pandemic response, several hundred members of frontline staff, and patients. Later, William and Kate will host the NHS Big Tea in the gardens of Buckingham Palace to pay tribute to the work of NHS staff who have gone above and beyond in tackling the pandemic.
They will meet staff ranging from respiratory ward nurses, counsellors and care workers, to those working in non-clinical roles including catering managers and housekeeping co-ordinators.
The NHS Big Tea is organised by NHS Charities Together and is a national celebration of the health service, offering the opportunity for communities to come together for a moment of reflection and to thank staff and volunteers for the role they have played throughout the pandemic.
The event hosted by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge is one of thousands of Big Teas taking place today in homes, hospitals, schools and community spaces across the UK. NHS Charities Together is the independent national charity partner of the NHS.