STAFF at Arrowe Park Hospital were among those who took part in a nationwide clap celebrating the 72nd of the NHS this afternoon. 

The minute's applause, which took place at 5pm, is hoped to become an annual tradition.

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Staff at Arrowe Park Hospital earlier tonight. Picture: Karen Manning

Following the success of the weekly clap for carers, people were encouraged to reflect on the heroes of the pandemic with family and friends.

Last night, people were asked to put a light in their windows in remembrance of those lost to the pandemic.

Among those praising the NHS was Globe reader Ian Walker, pictured on the COVID isolation booths earlier this week at Arrowe Park Hospital.

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He said: "Can I just say to all the nursing staff and doctors porters etc who are entering that ward you are truly wonderful human beings and thank you all very much.

"I would also like to say a personal thanks to all. The staff on Ward 32 for looking after me so greatly.

"Ensuring I was comfy rested and not too disturbed but also keeping me informed on what was going on and just the little touches like a comb for my hair a small shampoo so I could have a wash really made all that difference I can not praise them enough.

"I dread to think where we would be without the NHS and those that work and truly battle for the future of the NHS.#

"Thank you to each and every one of you... From the front office staff admin staff to the senior executives and not forgetting the nurses and the HCA's in the middle.

"Your dedication and professionalism is very much appreciated."

Speaking prior to this weekend's NHS chief executive Sir Simon Stevens said he hoped the public would use the anniversary as an opportunity to "say a heartfelt thank you" to hospital staff.

Sir Simon said: "This year has been the most challenging in NHS history, with staff displaying extraordinary dedication, skill and compassion to care for the 100,000 patients with Covid-19 who needed specialist hospital treatment and many others besides.

"During this testing time our nurses, doctors, physios, pharmacists and countless more colleagues were sustained by the support of the public, not least through the weekly applause for key workers.

"No health service, not even the NHS, could have coped alone with this coronavirus pandemic.

“From bus drivers and teachers to care staff and food retailers and, of course, the public who took action to stay at home to stop infection spreading, everyone played their part."