As thousands of households took to their doorsteps to applaud NHS workers, a special sign of gratitude was shown to those at Deal Hospital.

Members of the public hung blue balloons, paper ball decorations and a handmade poster at the London Road entrance.

A rainbow creation and ribbons had also been tied to the trees.

Nearby resident Jim Wheeler spotted that the decorations had been put up for last night's Clap for Carers event - which will continue every Thursday at 8pm.

The event shows appreciation for the medics on the frontline of the battle against coronavirus.

A nurse from Deal Minor Injuries said that staff weren't sure who was responsible but that people in general have been "really lovely."

Mr Wheeler said: "As far as I know they were done by local residents.

"There is also a rainbow ribbon above the baubles. It looks to me that the NHS thank you sign may have been done by a child.

"I particularly like the fact that somebody used Christmas decorations – gives us something to look forward to."

Hundreds of thousands of locked down families took part in the Clap For Our Carers event on Thursday including in Deal's Telegraph Road where hoards of people could be heard cheering, clanging pots and pans and even letting off a firework.

Prime minister Boris Johnson emerged from isolation at 10 Downing Street to pay tribute.

Several landmarks across the county also lit up in blue to show their support including Rochester Cathedral and the clock towers in Herne Bay and Gravesend.

They joined the London Eye and Westminster Abbey.

The Marlowe Theatre in Canterbury was also lit up, casting a blue light over the city skyline.

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