They've worked tirelessly for months in the battle against coronavirus - now NHS wokers have been thanked with a nationwide applause to mark the 72nd anniversary of the organisation.
Thousands of people across the country clapped for the key workers at 5pm on Sunday and these pictures show the emotional scenes at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Gateshead.
Wearing face masks, staff at the hospital came outside and held a round of applause in honour of all the people who have helped in the fight against Covid-19.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock, who also took part in the applause, tweeted: "Fantastic to come together on the NHS's 72nd birthday to once again clap for all our carers. Thank you all for everything you do."
And Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer stood outside his home in Kentish Town, north London, and clapped with several others living nearby.
The applause follows the success of the weekly Clap for Carers, and it is hoped it will become an annual tradition.
Among those who have paid tribute to the NHS is the Prince of Wales, who said: "The current pandemic means that the NHS - and the entire country - has been through the most testing time in the service's history.
"Our remarkably selfless nurses, doctors, paramedics and countless other staff have made costly sacrifices to provide treatment for more than a hundred thousand patients with coronavirus and thousands more who needed other care.
"And, in tribute to them, we have come together as a nation to thank them for their skill, professionalism and dedication."
On Saturday, people observed a minute's silent and lit candles in remembrance of those who have died during the coronavirus pandemic.
