Cheshire West and Chester Council has announced its plans for the first ever NHS, Social Care and Frontline Workers' Day on Monday 5 July.

With events planned across the country, the annual day of thanks provides communities with the opportunity to show their gratitude to all NHS, social care and frontline staff, and to remember those who have lost their lives due to COVID-19.

In west Cheshire, the Council will be lighting the Chester Town Hall, Eastgate Clock and Newgate with blue lights on the weekend to show their support.

On Monday 5 July, the NHS flag will be flown in Town Hall Square and at Council Offices in Chester, Ellesmere Port and Winsford.

A two-minute silence and the playing of the last post and reveille inside Chester Cathedral will take place at 11am on the day, to remember the men and women from these key services who have lost their lives in the service to others.

At 8pm on the 5 July, local communities are encouraged to, once again, open their doors and windows, stand in gardens and streets, and applaud the people who are still saving lives and keeping essential services going.

The Lord Mayor, accompanied by the Sheriff of Chester and Deputy Lord Mayor, will take to the Town Hall steps, joining the nation as they clap to show appreciation for the dedicated workers in these services. To coincide, Chester Cathedral's bells will ring 73 times - one ring for every year of the NHS.

The Lord Mayor of Chester, Councillor Martyn Delaney, said: "In the current pandemic it is important for everyone to support NHS, Social Care and Frontline Workers' Day on 5 July 2021. We need to show our appreciation for the way all of the staff from these services have stepped forward to keep us safe and well, and so I have no hesitation in joining in.

"I speak from recent personal experience when I say that when I needed the NHS they were there for me, and I hear many similar stories from the residents of Chester who I meet, whether it be about care in hospital or from other care providers in our community. So, let us all be there for them on Monday 5 July 2021."

Visit the NHS, Social Care and Frontline Workers' Day website for more information about the day and details on the programme of events planned.