Thousands in London clap to thank key workers

People in London clapped for carers and National Health Service workers fighting the coronavirus pandemic on Thursday, for what was expected to be the last time.

For weeks, thousands of people across the UK have taken part in the Thursday evening ritual, aimed at bringing neighbourhood residents onto their doorsteps to express their appreciation for frontline health care workers.

British politicians including prime minister Boris Johnson have been enthusiastic in their embrace of the practice.

The founder of the Clap for Carers initiative, Annemarie Plas, said it was time to end the tradition as she worried that it was becoming politicised.

But she said it had achieved its purpose.

"I hope it has had a positive impact and I hope it that it has in some ways brought communities together," she commented.

As Britain cautiously began to ease its lockdown, many London residents took advantage of warm eveing sunshine and headed for parks in the centre of the capital.

(Representative Image)