IT took the UK by storm - every Thursday, the nation came together to applaud our NHS staff and carers fighting the coronavirus outbreak.

But after ten weeks 'Clap for Carers' came to end after its organiser said the weekly ritual should end 'at its peak.'

However, a nationwide clap to thank the NHS will take place next Sunday - something which is hoped will become an annual tradition.

At 5pm on Sunday, July 5, Brits will be encouraged to reflect on the heroes of the pandemic with family and friends.

It will also coincide with the 72nd anniversary of the NHS.

Broadcasters will also suspend transmissions for a moment as a mark of respect.

On July 4, the evening before, people will also be asked to put a light in their windows in remembrance of those lost to the pandemic.

Public buildings will also be lit up in blue for the NHS including the Royal Albert Hall, Blackpool Tower, the Shard and the Wembley Arch.

NHS chief executive Sir Simon Stevens said he hopes the public will use the anniversary as an opportunity to "say a heartfelt thank you" to hospital staff.

Sir Simon said: "This year has been the most challenging in NHS history, with staff displaying extraordinary dedication, skill and compassion to care for the 100,000 patients with Covid-19 who needed specialist hospital treatment and many others besides.

"During this testing time our nurses, doctors, physios, pharmacists and countless more colleagues were sustained by the support of the public, not least through the weekly applause for key workers.

"No health service, not even the NHS, could have coped alone with this coronavirus pandemic.

"From bus drivers and teachers to care staff and food retailers and, of course, the public who took action to stay at home to stop infection spreading, everyone played their part."

Chief executive for NHS Wales Dr Andrew Goodall said Clap for Carers was "very much embraced" in Wales and he is "delighted" to support the clap on July 5.

"I know communities across Wales will want to pay tribute and thank everyone who has played their part in supporting our nation through this pandemic," he said.