THE popular Clap for Carers campaign of the first lockdown is to make a return for the third national lockdown this week, it has been announced.

During last spring millions of people came out of their homes and stood on pavements and in their gardens at 8pm every Thursday to demonstrate their support for care staff and frontline workers.

It became a familiar sight in Worcestershire too, with residents weekly joining in and cheering, banging pots and applauding NHS and other key workers.

The campaign ran for 10 weeks before it ended as towards the end it was criticised by some for becoming “politicised”, while others - including NHS staff - said some people who take part in the clap then wilfully ignored the plea to stay at home.

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But its organiser Annemarie Plas has said it will be back this week under the new name 'Clap for Heroes'.

The organiser tweeted: “We are bringing back the 8pm applause, in our 3rd lockdown.

“I hope it can lift the spirit, of all of us.

"Carers teacher, homeschooling parents, those who shield and ALL who is pushing through this difficult time! Please join & share! #clapforheroes.”