IN JUST a few weeks, coronavirus ­— or Covid-19 ­— has brought the UK to its knees.

Now more than ever, we are reliant on our doctors and nurses in our NHS hospitals. These guardian angels of the community are serving on the frontline under almost impossible pressure to save lives.

While the majority of the population are confined to their homes, these heroes are forsaking their own health and wellbeing and putting people like you and me first.

We think it is time for us as a community to say thank you.

Local newspapers across Newsquest are joining together to raise money for NHS Charities Together and their urgent Covid-19 appeal.

Donations will be used for well-being packs and gifts for staff, food deliveries and refreshments, covering the cost of travel and accommodation and other items which enhance the well-being of NHS staff and volunteers.

At this time of hardship, it is important for us, the community, to bring some joy and happiness to those who are giving us so much.

Nationally, we have seen community spirit thriving in these difficult times, with people supporting each other like never before.

And we’ve already seen the spirit of medics at hospitals performing songs and video messages urging people to stay at home and follow government advice.

We are asking our readers to extend this support to the heroes of the NHS, to let them know we care and are thankful for everything they are doing.

Please donate whatever you can, and let us give a united message to our NHS workers of our huge appreciation for their efforts.

You can give direct to our local East Lancashire hospitals charity ELHT&Me at www.elht.nhs.uk/charity/donate

Donate at our dedicated Go Fund Me page

You can support our campaign by sharing our appeal and by telling us why you are thankful for the NHS with the hashtag #ThankYouNHS on social media.

Send us a picture of yourself holding up a #ThankYouNHS sign ­— and we’ll publish the best ones.

Let us show our NHS staff that we care, and that we are thankful for everything they are doing for us all during this crisis.

Donate at our dedicated Go Fund Me page