• Norwood Forum

NHS Anniversary this weekend - and how to take part

Dozens of landmarks across the country will be lit up blue this evening to mark 72 years since the founding of the NHS. Ahead of the health service's anniversary on Sunday, people are being encouraged to take part in a weekend of celebration and remembrance.

People will be asked to put a light in their window on Saturday evening to remember those who have died in the coronavirus pandemic.
On Sunday evening, households across the UK will take to their doorsteps for a nationwide clap for NHS workers.

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On Saturday, major public buildings will be illuminated with blue light, including the Houses of Parliament, Blackpool Tower, the SEC Armadillo, the Shard and the Wembley Arch.

Downing Street will also be lit up, with a candle placed on the doorstep of No 10.

At 20:00 BST, the dean of St Paul's Cathedral in London will light a candle of remembrance of the lives which have been lost during the pandemic.

On Sunday, a flypast by a World War Two Spitfire fighter plane is due to take place over hospitals in the east of England and a nationwide applause, inspired by the Clap for Carers initiative, will take place at 17:00 BST.

A special programme will be broadcast on BBC One to mark the occasion.