People in Kent joined together tonight to Clap for Carers for what could be the last time.

Now in its 10th week, the initiative sees people standing at their door step or window every Thursday at 8pm to clap in honour of the NHS and other key workers risking their lives on the coronavirus frontline.

The response so far has been overwhelming, with applause heard across whole cities and towns and famous landmarks lighting up blue.

And tonight was no different.

The bell at Canterbury Cathedral rang for two minutes, while drivers with the Swain Group, based in Medway, held a convoy and tooted their horns and waved their flags.

Student Eleanor Alyce Crook stood by her window to show her appreciation.

In Gillingham, neighbours in Malvern Road clapped, saluted, marched and played the bagpipes for the carers.

Clare Hush said: "So tonight our road said it would be the last clap for NHS and keyworkers.

"So here is a photo of Paul with his bagpipes, an air cadet, and my two children Harriet a Royal Marine cadet and John, a sea cadet.

"When the clap for keyworkers started the cadets were asked to salute and take part in #thecadetsaulte for keyworkers.

"Then Paul would walk down his road with his bagpipes playing songs and so for 10 weeks these guys have been marching up and down our road for the NHS and keyworkers. It was sad to see it finished but I think it's time."

In Cuxton, Medway, a house was lit up in blue as a thank you to all NHS staff and key workers.

The house was lit up by LTSE Production, a sound and lighting company, and was also in tribute to Colin Gardner, who recently passed away.

But despite its popularity, this week's clap could be the final one, after organiser Annemarie Plas said that it would be best to end it "at its peak".

She also feels the applause may have become too politicised.

Speaking to Sky News, Ms Plas said: "I think it's good to have the last of the series, because to have the most impact I think it is good to stop it at its peak.

"Without getting too political, I share some of the opinions that some people have about it becoming politicised.

"I think the narrative is starting to change and I don't want the clap to be negative."

She suggests we could now make it an annual event.

"A clap is something normal people can do, showing our appreciation," she added.

"But the power is not with us. We can give them respect but we are not signing the cheque - that falls on another desk.

"Stopping clapping doesn't mean we are not still appreciating them.

"Some people will still want to carry on, so they should. But we will stop and show our support in other ways - there are other initiatives we can support."

Many Kent residents agree it is time to end.

Sharon Stoute said: "I feel it has lost its meaning to be honest - the first three or four weeks were fine.

"Surely it's far better to show respect for the NHS by protecting yourselves from the virus, and isolating where possible so you don't overwhelm them? The big gatherings on beaches at the weekend shows no thought for anybody."

Claire Ripley, who works for the NHS, says she has not clapped for around a month.

"Seeing a lot of people who have paid no attention to lockdown clapping undermines the whole thing plus the fireworks need to stop. Ensuring the government does not stop pay rises for nurses as suspected later in the year would be a better use of the community effort."

In a KentOnline poll, 82% of readers agreed tonight should be the last clap.

Send any videos or pictures of your last clap to swilliams@thekmgroup.co.uk.

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