The world famous Piccadilly Lights today (Thursday, March 26) leads the nation in a tribute to the front line critical workers who are saving lives and keeping the country going during COVID-19.

London’s Piccadilly Circus screen, which is operated by Ocean on behalf of Landsec, is featuring messages of thanks to the nurses, doctors and other NHS staff, carers, pharmacists, the emergency services, supermarket workers, transport and delivery drivers and other key professions who are treating patients, keeping people safe, well and fed and the country moving.

The special salute is appearing every hour throughout the day leading up to #lightitblue at 8pm. At that moment, Piccadilly Lights and more than 40 other national landmarks will become beacons of blue for one hour. #lightitblue is inspired by the Clap for Carers NHS initiative to applaud NHS workers.

Similar messages supporting our Local Heroes are being carried by Ocean screens in 11 other UK cities.

Ocean Outdoor CEO Tim Bleakley said: “These are extraordinary times and people are doing incredibly difficult jobs to keep our people safe, cared for and our cities and the country running as best as is safely possible. This is our way of drawing attention to their selfless work and show our gratitude. It’s times like this that a thank you goes a long way.”

Rainbows drawn by schoolchildren are also being featured across digital screens. The Rainbow Trail is designed to spread a little hope by sending cheer and good wishes to key workers who are unable to stay at home.