EVERY Thursday at 8pm, socially distanced residents have emerged from their homes to enjoy a moment of unity with their neighbours.

They have applauded, played instruments, banged pots and pans together, and sometimes even set off fireworks, all in the name of celebrating the efforts of NHS and care workers.

Last Thursday’s Clap for Carers, the tenth week of this nationwide event, may have been the last.

Its founder Annemarie Plas, 36, said she has no problem with people continuing to gather to clap but said she will not be among those taking part in future, fearing the event was becoming politicised and wanting to go out on a high.

Motivations aside, Clap for Carers has proved to be an opportunity for the more inventive to pay their respects to those battling coronavirus on the frontline.

Last Thursday, Bradfield residents lit nightlights to remember and honour people who have passed away during the coronavirus pandemic.

Dennis Hawes, of Steam Mill Road, Bradfield, came up with the idea to light candles in their memory.

Mr Hawes said more than 50 households participated despite the challenging weather.

“It was a very cold wind and it was difficult to keep the candles alight,” he added.

“However, many people solved the problem by putting them in a bottle or glass.

“If it wouldn’t have been for the wind, it would’ve been much easier to have the lights places along the pathways or driveways.

“But everyone compromised, and every household had about two candles each.”

Mr Hawes said he walked up the road at about 10pm, witnessing many candles through windows.

He said: “It looked quite nice and all in all, I think people thought it was a very good idea.

“Thousands of people have suffered because of the coronavirus and many died, so we have to honour them all.

“The virus is a terrible thing and the disruption it has caused is incredible, there’s going to be a lot of people losing their jobs or trying to find a job.”