There was a mixed reception among ECHO readers after it was suggested the 10th weekly Clap for Carers event tonight may be the last, after the woman behind the idea said she would no longer take part.
Thousands of people across Merseyside joined NHS staff at 8pm every Thursday to demonstrate their support for care staff and frontline workers, in scenes replicated across the country.
But the ritual has been criticised by some for becoming "politicised", while others, including NHS staff, have said some people who take part in the clap then wilfully ignore the plea to stay at home and avoid gatherings in an effort to ease the strain on the healthcare system.
Annemarie Plas, 36, said she had no problem with people continuing to gather at 8pm each week to clap, but said she would not be among those taking part in future.
She said: "To have the most impact I think it is good to stop it at its peak.
"Without getting too political, I share some of the opinions that some people have about it becoming politicised.
"I think the narrative is starting to change and I don't want the clap to be negative."
Here are some of the responses we received from ECHO readers on whether they thought the Clap for Carers should end.
Amanda Hoose said: "I think it was a good way to unite the nation. Everyone doing the same action at the same time. Clapping was quite perfect."
Helen Ynwa Roberts said: "I have been at the Royal three times since lockdown and each time it's been empty, yet when I've been the shops they have been inundated. Each and every key worker is important."
Alan Collins said: "My son has worked right through the lockdown and not for the NHS. He said he's not looking for anyone to applaud him.
"My daughter on the other hand is a front line nurse working 14 hour nights might get one quick break if she's lucky and seeing as many as seven or eight people die on a shift. You might think I'm a bit biased but I think everyone in the care profession warrants a special mention and applauding."
Catherine O' Brien said: "It's a mockery. The same people clapping every week are having people over in houses, gardens, having parties, kids, adults everyone.
"I for one am not clapping anymore. I've isolated and complied with the restrictions, my business is closed, and I'm having real issues with the loneliness. Sooner we can get back to work the better. So please people, use your common sense."
Cheryl Duggan said: "What's wrong with a clap, it's nice for the old ones stuck in on their own. They come out & see all their neighbours, a little wave & a smile to them goes a long way!"
Steve Bailey said: "I thought the first time was really special and it was unique, but doing it every Thursday took the shine off it.
"Stopping it doesn't mean we don't appreciate them, as we do, we have our young'un working for the NHS so we know all too well what they do and continue to do, but my view is, it's lost its value for what we were clapping for in the first place."
Trish Shannon said: "Less clapping for these wonderful people and more action for getting their pay and working conditions improved."
Ann Butchard said: "Yes, think this is a good time to stop. We have shown our appreciation, the NHS and front line workers now know they are appreciated and stopping clapping does not mean we've stopped caring."
Kevin Wynne said: "Yes it's probably time to call it a day. The message of thanks has been demonstrated loud and clear now and I hope that the powers that be will show their gratitude by giving these heroes a huge pay rise and bonuses. They have done a fantastic job above and beyond the call of duty!"
