Here’s why Britain celebrates “Thank You Day” on July 4th Bedford News

It’s not just Americans celebrating a national holiday on July 4th, as the UK will also show its gratitude on its very first “Thank You Day”.

Over the past year and a half, Britons have cheered for caregivers, raised millions of pounds for the NHS and supported their neighbors and local communities to tackle the coronavirus.

Thanksgiving Day has been recognized by political leaders, from the Prime Minister to the Prime Ministers of Scotland and Wales.

So what is the Thank You Day for, what events will take place and will it continue each year? This is what you need to know.

National Day of Thanksgiving is a celebration of everyone who helped others during the pandemic, from truck drivers who dropped off groceries, to teachers who persisted with Zoom classes and to doctors who spent more than 12 hours a day to wear masks and PPE.

The date was chosen as it is the eve of the NHS anniversary, and comes a time when restrictions are finally starting to ease considerably and people can come together again.

The idea started with 13 people who came up with a special day of thanksgiving, and has since grown into a campaign supported by sports figures, political leaders, Boy Scouts and Guides, church groups and the media.

There is no strict plan for the day, but celebrations have been held across the country and other local events have been planned. Schools, sports clubs and churches have all agreed to get involved.

Whether it’s barbecues or cakes, people can put in as much or as little effort as they have the time.

At 1pm, ‘Big Lunch’ events will kick off across the UK – sponsored by Ainsley Harriott. The events hope to bring together people who have lived alone or isolated for much of the past year, with delicious food and massive portions of gratitude.

The Prime Minister will also be treated to a barbecue, hosted by celebrity chef Reggie Reggie, Levi Roots.

Boris Johnson said of the events of the day: “I pay tribute to all who have gone above and beyond to help others throughout the pandemic – it has been truly inspiring to see the people amazing national effort. Across the country.

“I look forward to welcoming local community leaders, NHS workers, representatives from the Royal Voluntary Service and several of our Points of Light award winners this weekend to celebrate Thanksgiving Day and express my personal thanks and sincere. ”

In Scotland, Nicola Sturgeon will host a Tartan Tea Party to mark the day with Scottish Parliament staff and their families.

“Thanksgiving Day gives us the opportunity to express in person our gratitude to those who go out of their way to offer their time and help – and I am extremely grateful to all who have already and continue to do so. By taking into account the different public health rules and advice and allowing others to do the same, you are protecting vulnerable people and helping to suppress the virus, ”she said.

Mark Drakeford, Premier of Wales, thanked the NHS for its “heroic effort”.

He said: “This is a great opportunity to thank those who have supported us during the pandemic. We have seen a heroic effort from NHS staff, key workers and volunteers to make sure we get through this difficult time. “

Elsewhere, Coventry Cathedral hosted an interfaith meeting at 9:30 am to bring together different faith groups to share their appreciation for the work of local communities.

Levi Roots will also be hosting a youth barbecue at Myatt’s Fields Park in South London from 5pm to 9pm.

Will there be a thank you day each year?

It is not yet known whether the day will see national celebrations held each year in the UK, although there are often celebrations around July 5 for the NHS.