Neighbours of care home where three coronavirus patients have died clap brave staff

Neighbours of a care home which has suffered three coronavirus deaths and staff shortages came out to show their support during this week's applause for key workers.

Oak Springs Care Home in Wavertree, Liverpool, has seen three residents die after suffering from Covid-19 symptoms, with many more also being reported as unwell.

Staff at the Church Road home appealed for help earlier this week as staff numbers continued to drop due to self-isolation guidelines.

Since Sunday, the home has been inundated with offers to help and neighbours in the area also took the time to share their support.

Dozens of people living around the care home came out of their hours on Thursday night at 8pm to take part in the Clap For Carers campaign.

Neighbours clapped in support of virus-hit Oak Springs care home (PA)

People were also heard banging pots and pans and fireworks were seen being let off in neighbouring streets.

The show of support was also a chance for people to display their appreciation to other key workers, such as supermarket worker, police officers and post service workers.

The care home has been decimated by coronavirus with scores of sick staff (Google)

A couple who live facing Oak Springs, Dot and Tony, said: “We have come out to show our support to the postmen and everybody still working.

“Even the bin men and especially the National Health Service.”

Another neighbour, Thomas, said: “I’m here to support the National Health Services who are doing a fantastic job.

NHS workers applaud on the streets outside Chelsea and Westminster Hospital (REUTERS)

“Good luck to them, keep it going.

“We love you, you’re saving lives. Thank you very much.”

The viral campaign saw people all over the UK clapping in their homes last week for NHS workers who are treating the COVID-19 crisis.

This week however, the applause was extended to other key workers who are dedicated to looking after others and keep the country running, including supermarket workers, cleaners, carers and teachers.

And people took to their windows, front doors and balconies across Merseyside at 8pm on Thursday night to Clap For Carers working on the front line.

Sarah Jones said: "Everyone in our street clapped and some of our neighbours did a thumbs up to my dad who is a key worker.

"Thanks to all the key workers. Stay safe, we love you."