Emergency services show appreciation for NHS staff

STAFF at the Gilbert Bain Hospital were treated to a “blue lights” display by emergency service vehicles accompanied by bagpipes this evening as part of the now established clap for front line workers during the coronavirus pandemic.

Around a dozen vehicles from the fire brigade, ambulance service, police and coastguard convoyed from the Lerwick fire/ambulance station for the 8pm clap.

Piper Liam Buchanan, a postie and part-time social care worker, played a medley of bagpipe tunes in the sharp evening air as nurses and other hospital staff joined the emergency service workers for a hearty clap.

NHS Shetland communications officer Carol Campbell said: “It’s a very kind, heart warming gesture by the blue light services in Shetland. We work as a team and its lovely to hear their support at this difficult time.

“I think it means a great deal to everyone inside [the Gilbert Bain]. I think there were a few tears in the eyes of the senior nurses here.”