Participating in the service will be some of the Cathedral congregation who work in healthcare, including Dr Charlotte Dickens, a GP at Thorpe Road Practice; Dr Janice Allister, a retired GP; and Gloria Nyakageni, a Senior Registered Nurse Specialist.

There will also be a message from the Right Revd Donald Allister, Bishop of Peterborough, himself a former medical student.

Canon Rowan Williams, the Precentor at the Cathedral who has put together the service, said:

“The coronavirus crisis has made us more aware than ever that we all owe something to the NHS – maybe even our own lives, or the life of someone close to us. I saw this at first hand as a care worker, placement student and a hospital chaplain, as well as a patient and the relative of patients: so as well as this being a celebration in which we all share, putting this service together is my own tribute to the patients, staff and relatives whose stories I shared in.”

The Church of England is encouraging churches across the country to use the occasion of the anniversary to give thanks for the NHS and pray for those working in it. Some of the worship resources they have provided are included in this service.

The NHS is inviting everyone to come together at 5.00pm on Sunday 5th July to applaud the commitment, courage and sacrifice shown by so many. #ThankYouTogether.

The Cathedral’s short service will be live streamed on their Facebook page at 6.00pm. It will also be available as a video on YouTube. You can find details, including The Order of Service, here: www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk/watch-again.aspx.

The nave of Peterborough Cathedral is currently open for private prayer, from 10.00am until 1.00pm daily. For more details check their website, email info@peterborough-cathedral.org.uk or call 01733 355315.