Freemasons in Bournemouth and Christchurch are to support the inaugural NHS, Social Care and Frontline Workers’ Day on 5 July.

Freemasons’ lodge buildings as well as individual members will be flying flags, banners and bunting at 10am to mark the day and show their thanks to those who have saved lives, and to remember those who have died from Covid-19.

A £5 donation from every flag and length of bunting made will be equally divided between NHS Charities Together and the National Care Association.

The aim is to set a record for the number of flags raised simultaneously across the nation.

Also at 11am on 5 July, Freemasons are planning a moment’s silence to remember frontline workers and all those who died from Covid-19.

The day continues with a toast to the NHS at 1pm, raising a cuppa to the NHS during afternoon tea at 3pm, followed by an address to the nation at 6pm.

At 8pm, the Freemasons will join the nation in an evening clap for NHS workers, while church bells are set to ring 73 times to celebrate 73 years of the NHS. Closing the celebrations at 9pm, there will be a #timetotoast for all NHS workers.

Jon Whitaker who heads the Freemasons in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight and is a St John Ambulance volunteer, said: “It’s important to thank those who have been on the frontline battling Covid and our members will be doing just that.

 “And we hope as many people as possible join us is saying thank you, but also remembering those who have died.”

To find out more about NHS, Social Care and Frontline Workers Day and to register your participation in the event, please visit: www.nhsfrontlineday.org