Blackpool hails the NHS on its 72nd birthday

Staff at the town's Victoria Hospital joined in the "Clap For Heroes" tribute to the health service at 5pm today.

The resort's famous Tower was also joining the celebration by being lit up blue along with other notable buildings across Britain including the Royal Albert Hall, The Shard and the Wembley Arch.

The round of applause followed the lighting of candles last night to remember all those who have died during the coronavirus pandemic.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson greeted representatives of NHS staff in the garden at 10 Downing Street this afternoon.

He urged the public to clap in support of "those who have worked tirelessly and selflessly to help the nation get through this pandemic."

The applause follows the success of the weekly clap for heroes which was a feature of Thursday nights for many weeks at the height of the Covid crisis.

It is hoped today's NHS birthday applause will become an annual event.