THE nation has shown its gratitude to our amazing care staff each week, with households in Herefordshire joining others across the UK to clap for carers.
But there is also an army of key workers who continue to carry out their work to the best of their abilities each and every day to keep the county moving.
From postal workers to mechanics, shop workers to firefighters, they are the people without whom Herefordshire would swiftly grind to a complete halt.
In recognition of their often unseen but ever vital efforts we would love to hear about your key worker hero.
We plan to pay tribute to everyone you nominate with a special celebration of their contributions in print and online.
Mark Preece got in touch to tell us about his dad, Jon Preece, of Holme Lacy Road, Hereford, who has worked as a manager for FCC Environment, providing rubbish collection services in the city for 23 years.
Jon, 54, and his colleagues have worked through the lockdown to provide an essential service.
“My dad, Jon Preece, is a key worker hero,” Mark said.
“He works in the offices at FCC currently, but hasn’t always. He has said that some people have been really appreciative and let him go first in queues on his lunch break, which is really nice.
“His team have all come together during this tough time to make sure they do everything on time and to the best of their abilities.
“It would be nice for bin collectors to get some recognition, as there are not often many positive things said about them. But my dad works so hard and never complains.
“He makes sure everything is run smoothly and helps out to the best of his abilities.
The vital role of refuse collectors in the county has also been highlighted by Only Fools and Horses star John Challis, who thanked Herefordshire’s crews for the “great job they do” by leaving a handwritten message of support on his bin.
About 70 people from FCC Environment in Herefordshire are continuing to head out to work on behalf of Herefordshire Council, keeping household recycling and waste collections operating as normal in the county.
Meanwhile, Lauren Martin paid tribute to postal workers, including her father, John Martin, 49, who lives in Hereford.
“My dad and his best friend have been postmen for a very long time,” Lauren said. “Dad has been doing it for over 16 years, and his best friend, Simon Hissey, longer than that.
“My dad has his own round now, and he seems to be doing well.
"Hours can be quite long at the moment, and he’s working later than I would usually expect, but the people of Tarrington are so lovely and understanding and really appreciate my dad as a postman.
"The same goes for Simon, who goes out of his way to help everyone he can.
“They both have families, and I am thankful for everything Royal Mail does during this time.
“They both work incredibly hard and they say they don’t need recognition, but I really think they do.”
Community answers
Key worker shout-out
"Tell us about the key worker from any occupation who you think has done a fabulous job throughout the coronavirus crisis. Please include: • Their name • Their photo is possible • Where they work • What they have done to deserve praise • Your name Your contribution won't appear immediately, but we'll upload it here as soon as possible, and publish all we can in print."
We asked for your responses - this is what you sent.
What is your response?A great big THANK YOU to all of the team at Eastnor C of E Primary School for their hard graft, and kindness and encouragement to pupils and parents alike throughout the crisis.
Your pictures
A great big THANK YOU to all of the team at Eastnor C of E Primary School for their hard graft, and kindness and encouragement to pupils and parents alike throughout the crisis. What is your response?Angie Sherwood, Hereford County Hospital. Is continuing to put herself on the front line to keep the hospital safe and clean. Works tirelessly week after week.
Your pictures
Angie Sherwood, Hereford County Hospital. Is continuing to put herself on the front line to keep the hospital safe and clean. Works tirelessly week after week. What is your response?Sorry don't know there names but the dustbin crew that serves Moreton on lugg and our postman are worthy of a big thank you for carrying out their jobs providing a service in these difficult times and always with a smile on there faces.
What is your response?Charlotte Moon who works at Avara food, has continued to work throughout the pandemic. :D
Your pictures
Charlotte Moon who works at Avara food, has continued to work throughout the pandemic. :D What is your response?Karl Prideaux-Brimfield is the security manager at Heineken work with a great team. Looks out for family and friends. Will do anything if he can. And still helps his 4 daughters after 12 hours shifts
Key worker shout-out
Tell us about the key worker from any occupation who you think has done a fabulous job throughout the coronavirus crisis. Please include: • Their name • Their photo is possible • Where they work • What they have done to deserve praise • Your name Your contribution won't appear immediately, but we'll upload it here as soon as possible, and publish all we can in print.
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