Millions of people across the UK took part in a nationwide tribute last night to the hard work of NHS and care workers on the frontline of the fight against the coronavirus.

The clap for carers salute at 8pm saw thousands of households gathering on doorsteps, balconies and in gardens in a moment of togetherness amid a virus that has kept them apart.

Residents in towns, cities, and even palaces, paid tribute to the relentless hard work of the healthcare service by clapping, cheering, blowing horns and in some places even setting off fireworks.

Famous landmarks including Piccadilly Circus, the Royal Albert Hall and Wembley arch all lit up blue at the same time.

Celebrities, royals and politicians all took part in the emotional tribute and shared their thanks on social media.

The Royal family shared a video of Windsor castle lit up and clapping with the caption: "#ClapForOurCarers #ClapforNHS from Windsor Castle!"

The young Royals also got in on the celebration, with Kensington Palace sharing a video of Princes George and Louis and Princess Charlotte clapping.

The Prime Minister was pictured outside Number 10 putting his hands together alongside chancellor Rishi Sunak following the latest emergency package unveiled on Thursday afternoon, granting 80% income for self-employed workers.

David Beckham and his family posted a video of their salute on Instagram.

Over the footage, his wife Victoria, can be heard saying: "Us Beckhams are all clapping to show our thanks to all the people who are working so hard for the NHS, all the doctors and all the nurses keeping us safe."

The footballer himself then added: "Especially away from your families, we are so so proud of you guys, thank you so much." 

Match of the Day presenter Gary Lineker wrote on Twitter: "Extraordinary togetherness and support across the country for our brave and brilliant NHS doctors, nurses and carers.

"Brings a tear to the eye. Wonderful. Thank you. #clapforourcarers

Liverpool football club also revealed a heartfelt message in which a number of its star players, as well as manager Jurgen Klopp, gave their thanks.

Klopp praised 'all of the incredible people who work hard to help services'.

 "It's unbelievable what you are doing," he added. "From all of us at LFC I would like to say thank you! Or, as we say in Germany, vielan dank!"

His message was followed by those from star players including club captain Jordan Henderson, who echoed their manager's sentiments.

England's Lionesses also took to social media after taking part in the celebration.

Posting on Twitter, they uploaded a video of some of England's top women joining the applause.

Captain Steph Hougton can be seen whistling and clapping while Jill Scott is pictured outside applauding.

It was not just sports stars sharing their thanks.

Sir Rod Stewart and his family also posted a video, saying: "Our family want to say a huge thank you to everyone working in the NHS as well as to all the health care workers and emergency services that are helping keep Britain’s families safe in these extremely difficult times."

Two London paramedics, Kate and Sean, managed to capture the iconic moment from the cab of their Ambulance in Kingston.

NHS workers have since been sharing their thanks for the celebration. 

Nursing staff Nigel and Becky described it as "very surreal" as they heard the applause "like thunder" on their way to work at a prison in London while some retired carers have admitted it has given them the last push they need to return to the front line.