People have come out in force for another 'clap for carers' tribute in the United Kingdom.
It's the second time the Brits have publicly come out to show their appreciation for those working on the frontline in the battle against COVID-19.
Millions of people all over the country participated in the cheering, clapping and banging pots and pans from their front doors, balconies and windows on Thursday night (local time).
Even Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who himself is suffering from COVID-19 and in self-isolation, stepped out of his apartment on Downing Street to give his support.
There have been more than 34,000 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the UK, with the death toll standing at almost 3000.
The Government has faced increasing criticism for not reacting fast enough to the pandemic. Although the country is currently in lockdown, many say the order came too late.
According to Reuters, the Government is now expecting as many as 20,000 people will die from the pathogen there over the coming months.
According to a study by the Imperial College last month, if the Government took no measures against the virus, there would be more than half a million deaths.
Although the clap for carers tribute focuses primarily on NHS health staff, other essential workers who don't have the luxury of staying safe in their homes were also honoured.
As well as the general public, a number of celebrities also threw their support behind the initiative.
One video shared by the NHS online features messages from Sir Elton John, Sir Paul McCartney and David Beckham, among others.
The Cleveland Police UK shared a video of patrol cars lined up outside a hospital in Stockton with their lights flashing and officers applauding.
On Twitter #ClapforCarers drew thousands of posts.
"Fantastic!!! Thank you so much for the support!!! You are all doing an amazing job," wrote one person.
London's Mayor Sadiq Khan, said the tribute was a "loud proud message...to everyone working flat out on the frontline".
"You are soldiers in this war," Khan wrote on Twitter. "Your hard work & dedication is saving lives every single day. We couldn't be more grateful."
According to the BBC, the clap for carers initiative was launched in the UK by Annemarie Plas, who was inspired by similar tributes in her native Netherlands and in other countries.
In New Zealand, there are also calls for people to show their gratitude to essential workers in the same way.
A 'clap for our champions at 7pm' Facebook group is urging Kiwis to head out onto their driveways or balconies to show their appreciation for one minute at 7pm every night.
