Every night, Wainhouse Tower in Halifax is lighting up blue, to honour the kindness and relentless efforts of the NHS and all the key workers helping others in the fight against coronavirus (COVID-19).
The lights at the top of the iconic landmark will remain blue until further notice, as a sign of Calderdale’s continued support, thanks and respect for everyone working on the frontline during the pandemic.
Cllr Tim Swift, Calderdale Council’s Leader, said:
“Day in, day out, staff across Calderdale and throughout the country are going above and beyond in the battle against COVID-19, often putting their own health at risk to protect others.
“Their kind and selfless efforts are truly commendable – they are real heroes. I’d like to thank every single health and care worker, every key worker and all the other people who are tirelessly doing everything they can to keep people safe and well.
“I was overwhelmed by our communities’ response to the mass round of applause to thank the NHS, and now we’re proud to light up one of our most recognisable landmarks as a symbol of Calderdale’s support and togetherness.”
Wainhouse Tower is an ornate Victorian chimney in Halifax, standing 77 metres (253 feet) high. Lights were first introduced to the top of the tower in the Millennium.
For up-to-date and reliable information about COVID-19, use trusted sources such as:
www.gov.uk/coronavirus(external link)
www.nhs.uk/coronavirus(external link)
www.calderdale.gov.uk/coronavirus
The Council urges everyone in Calderdale to follow the Government guidance on Staying at home and away from others(external link). This is the single most important thing you can do to protect the NHS and save lives. As well as social distancing, you can reduce the risk of catching and passing on COVID-19 by washing your hands(external link) with soap and water often, for at least 20 seconds, avoid touching your face and follow the ‘catch it, bin it, kill it(external link)’ guidance.
Calderdale Council continues to work on all aspects of the response to COVID-19. At its Cabinet meeting on Monday 16 March, the Leader of the Council, Cllr Tim Swift, announced a 10-point plan detailing how the Council will respond to the risks related to COVID-19.