The Queen has issued a message of thanks to health workers in the UK and around the world, praising their “selfless commitment and diligence”.
She sent the message on behalf of the royal family to mark World Health Day, in the midst of “the most challenging of circumstances” brought about by the coronavirus pandemic.
It comes after the head of state made a rare televised address to the nation and Commonwealth on Sunday.
On Monday night, Buckingham Palace confirmed it was in regular contact with Downing Street over the health of Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who spent the night in intensive care with Covid-19.
In her statement, the Queen said: “On the occasion of World Health Day, I want to thank all those in the healthcare profession for your selfless commitment and diligence as you undertake vitally important roles to protect and improve the health and wellbeing of people across the Commonwealth, and across the world.
“In testing times, we often observe that the best of the human spirit comes to the fore; the dedication to service of countless nurses, midwives and other health workers, in these most challenging of circumstances, is an example to us all.
“My family and I send our enduring appreciation and good wishes.”
Follow STV News on WhatsApp
Scan the QR code on your mobile device for all the latest news from around the country
