Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is thanking its staff and the local community for their support and compassion during recent months.

On Sunday 5 July, the NHS will mark its 72^nd birthday, and while this is a cause for celebration, the Trust says there is also a great deal of sadness due to those who have lost their lives to COVID-19.

Over the course of this weekend, the flag at Royal Preston Hospital will be lowered out of respect to those who have lost their lives.

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Nationally, the Shine a Light campaign encourages people to place lights and candles in their windows and porches on Saturday 4^t July, while landmarks will light up blue in remembrance of those no longer with us.

Lancashire Teaching Hospitals is also encouraging staff to join in the countrywide Clap for Carers to thank all of the NHS staff, carers and keyworkers who have kept us going during some of the most difficult times the country has endured.

Members of the public are welcome to join in the areas outside the main entrances of the hospital sites at 5pm on Sunday (5 July).

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Karen Partington, Chief Executive at Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said: “This weekend is a chance for us to take a moment to remember all of those people who tragically lost their lives to COVID-19 both from within the NHS family and the wider community.

“The pain and grief so many are feeling at the moment is unimaginable. It is also a time to give thanks to all of the NHS staff, keyworkers and carers who have worked incredibly hard to keep our nation going during the pandemic.

“I want to express my unending gratitude to all of our staff, whose commitment, passion and dedication is felt now more than ever and to acknowledge the invaluable support given to them by their families and friends. 

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“I’d like to thank all the other key workers who have contributed to our society in so many ways.

“Last but not least I’d like to thank our wonderful local communities in and around Preston and Chorley, who have shown unwavering support since the pandemic began – this has kept many of us going through some dark days – thank you all.”

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Will you be clapping for the NHS on Sunday? Let us know in the comments below.