Residents of south east London poured onto their balconies and windows to applaud the NHS staff battling the coronavirus pandemic last night.

The national round of applause came after the unveiling of a £9 billion package of support which will see the Government give millions of self-employed people a grant worth up to £2,500 a month.

People took to their balconies and doorsteps to clap and cheer, while vehicles sounded their horns at 8pm on Thursday evening as a gesture of thanks to frontline healthcare heroes.

A video posted by Cheryl Walsh shows residents on Glenhurst Avenue, Bexley, showing their appreciation.

Ms Walsh said "Was a fantastic turn out from our street to celebrate our NHS heroes!

"Really heartwarming to see the street come together for our services.

"A great community spirit!'

The Clap For Carers campaign, which started online, was staged because "during these unprecedented times they need to know we are grateful", according to the organisers.

At the same time, landmarks including Belfast City Hall, Principality Stadium in Cardiff and the London Eye were lit up as part of the #lightitblue salute.

Not long afterwards, a tweet from the NHS account said: "That was emotional."