Ashfield District Council has installed huge thank you messages to NHS staff and all key workers who are working during the current pandemic.

The first sign has been erected on land opposite King’s Mill Hospital, Sutton, thanking hospital staff and other key workers. This includes police officers, supermarket and petrol station staff, cleaners, teachers, postal workers, care workers, delivery drivers, refuse collectors and many more.

Council leader Jason Zadrozny, chief executive Carol Cooper-Smith and council officers joined Sherwood Forest Hospitals chief executive Richard Mitchell at the new sign on Thursday to ‘Clap for Carers’.

Coun Zadrozny said: “In these uncertain times, a shining light is that our key workers are finally receiving the recognition they deserve, especially the brilliant nurses, doctors and carers.

“The list does not end there though as so many people in our society are putting themselves on the frontline to help those in need. We want to say a huge thank you and hopefully this installation will be a daily reminder of how heroic you all are.”

The sign on Mansfield Road has been accompanied by a new flower bed, picnic table and hand-painted lettering on the grass.

Richard Mitchell added: “We are tremendously proud of our colleagues across our health and social care system and local key workers who have worked tirelessly during these unprecedented times.

“Thank you to the council for these signs and the garden. I know colleagues will enjoy these in months to come and it is really kind of you to create this for us.

“May I also take this opportunity to thank key workers across Nottinghamshire who have done a brilliant job to serve our community when they need you most. I am proud to stand together with colleagues from Ashfield District Council to clap for our carers this evening. Thank you to everyone for all that you continue to do.”

A second sign will soon be installed outside council offices at Urban Road, Kirkby.