(UK) – The campaign saw landmarks illuminated blue in tribute to NHS staff.

Professionals in the lighting, events and entertainment industry have joining together to generate a nationwide light show, illuminating landmarks and historic buildings blue as a salute to the work of the NHS.

The campaign, called #LightItBlue, was inspired by the NHS Clap For Our Carers campaign, with industry leaders wanting to create a simultaneous show of support for NHS staff amid the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.

The organisers behind the campaign asked major buildings and landmarks across the UK to light up blue at 8pm GMT on Thursday 26 March, specifically targeting buildings and landmarks with existing LED technology, in order to adhere to the UK Government’s critical messaging for everyone to stay indoors and minimise physical contact.

More than 60 theatres, bridges, cathedrals, castles, sports stadiums and national landmarks were contacted, with the list of locations taking part including the O2, the Royal Albert Hall, and Bristol City Football Club.

A statement from the organisers reads: “The events and entertainment industry finds itself in an unprecedented state of enforced inaction. The best thing we can do, apart from staying home and looking after our families, is to send out a massive thank you to all of the healthcare professionals who are risking their own health to save people made seriously ill by the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Our industry leaders also feel a responsibility for the mental health of countless employees who are feeling anxious and confused about the future. We believe that the #LightItBlue campaign will galvanise their enthusiasm and pride in a mass gesture of solidarity.”

After buildings across the UK were turned blue, the campaign has rolled into the personal and digital space, with organisers hopeful that people will be inspired to add their own versions of the message, with a national vote of thanks for the NHS reverberating across the UK.