Celebs Brewing Up Celebration Of NHS Heroes

Coronavirus: Keeping the focus

- Giles Sheldrick

Stars have urged Britain to pay tribute to our NHS heroes over a humble cuppa.

The health service is 73 on July 5 and the NHS Big Tea is a chance to raise cash for its Charities Together organisations looking after staff and patients.

Putting the kettle on is an apt way, as half of us say regular tea breaks have helped us get through the pandemic.

In an open letter 17 stars, including Stephen Fry, Line Of Duty actress Vicky McClure and TV presenter Lorraine Kelly say: “While we aren’t out of the woods yet, things are looking more hopeful.

“We are soon likely to be able to spend time with loved ones who we have been parted from for far too long.

“While still following any ongoing Covid restrictions, this is an opportunity to get together with the people who matter in your life, virtually or in person, and raise a mug of thanks to NHS staff and volunteers.” Money raised will increase practical and emotional support for frontline NHS staff, patients and volunteers.

NHS Charities Together has raised more than £150million through its Covid-19 Urgent Appeal, which was launched at the start of the pandemic last March.