Caithness joins in national applause for NHS staff and carers
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CAITHNESS showed its support for NHS staff and carers last night as people across the county joined in a national round of applause.
"I thought it was a fantastic gesture to make," civic leader Councillor Willie Mackay said.
"The response across the whole country was absolutely fantastic. Caithness is doing its bit – there is a tremendous support from people throughout the county."
Councillor Mackay said he felt Thursday night's Clap for Our Carers campaign had been a wonderful suggestion.
"It was a great success in uniting people together," he said. "It really consolidates that we are all in this together and can get through it.
"There is a peak to come yet, with all the indications things are going to get worse before they get better, according to scientists."
The Wick and East Caithness councillor joined in the applause along with his wife Glynis and a video they posted on Facebook had a great response.
They were among many local people who joined in the emotional tribute and posted messages and pictures on social media.
Neighbours took part in a number of Wick and Thurso streets, as well as villages throughout the county including Lybster, Dunbeath, Castletown and Dunnet. Along with the clapping, fireworks could also be heard in some areas.
Those living in the country without neighbours also supported the cause and opened their doors and windows to applaud not just the NHS staff but all the carers who are working so hard during the coronavirus outbreak.
Ten-year-old Andrew Sinclair of Latheron, did his bit for the campaign by playing the bagpipes at his home to say thank you for all the care his grandmother had received.
His father George got the idea after seeing posts on social media about Oban High School Pipe Band members' plans to perform live from their own doorsteps straight after the clapping took place.
Mum Fiona said: "We've had a fair bit of contact with the NHS recently as my mother had care at home for a few years and has had respite stays in Pulteney House.
"All of the individual carers were amazing and we're really grateful to all of them.
"We did see a couple of cars passing, but do not know if anyone saw us or was aware."
Andrew, a P6 pupil at Lybster Primary School, only started playing the pipes in October 2018 and is a member of the Caithness Junior Pipe Band.
A photo of the young piper on Facebook received many comments congratulating him.
