The historic black and white Market House in Newent is lighting up blue on Thursday evenings for ‘Clap for Our Carers’.

Newent Town Council wanted to visually thank NHS staff, carers, key workers and others helping during the Covid-19 crisis.

Now, each Thursday to coincide with the start of ‘Clap for Our Carers’, the 17th century building glows blue from tinted light strips around the base of the timber stilts.

The Mayor of Newent, Councillor Mrs June Davies, said: “I cannot thank our NHS highly enough for all the selfless work they are doing, and we must not forget those carers who do such dedicated work in our care homes and in domiciliary situations, putting themselves at risk.

“Thanks to all those people who are following Government guidelines to make our town a safe place to live, and special thanks to those who are continuing to work to keep us all going, whether it be food, medicines or whatever they produce in whatever capacity they work.

“The council are grateful to the ‘We Will Help, Newent Covid-19 Mutual Aid Group’ for their hard work in keeping the elderly and vulnerable equipped with whatever they need and to those other organisations or helpers who are doing so much good work for our community.”