This Sunday (July 5) sees the NHS celebrate its 72nd anniversary, and will also coincide with NHS Day of Thanks.

Never before have our doctors, nurses, hospital staff and paramedics been so much in the spotlight, stepping up to deliver a selfless level of service in the face of a global pandemic.

Thousands more staff were recruited or returned, an army of volunteers was created and even new hospitals were built, as the NHS responded to Covid-19.

None of this would have been possible without the commitment and skill of those who make up our NHS.

This weekend is the ideal opportunity to say 'thank you' to everyone involved in the NHS who has helped us through the last six months.

And there are several of ways to join in:

• On Saturday (July 4) the Together Coalition - headed-up by Brendan Cox, widower of MP Jo Cox - has asked people to remember all those we have lost by putting a light in their window or on their doorstep. This could be a candle, a lamp or a torch.

• Also on Saturday evening, national landmarks will be 'lit up blue' to remember but also to recognise the NHS anniversary the next day.

• Sunday, July 5, at 5pm, will see the biggest, loudest and final 'clap for carers and key workers' and people will be encouraged to stay outside to show their thanks/appreciation to their neighbours or get in touch with someone who is lonely, isolated or shielding, to let them know they are supported.

• People are also encouraged to say a personal thank you to a loved-one; someone who has helped them, or who has made a difference in their area. Fill windows, streets, school buildings and businesses with thank yous.

Leader readers across Wrexham and Flintshire have continually shown their support for the NHS and its staff throughout lockdown, and no doubt this weekend of deserved celebration will be no different.

If you are planning something for the 72nd NHS birthday or NHS Day of Thanks, let us know. You can share with us or send in your pictures by emailing news@leaderlive.co.uk