ON the evening that it was announced that confirmed coronavirus cases in Thurrock had risen by five to 20 - including pregnant mum Karen Mannering, the borough joined together to pay tribute to NHS workers.

Supporters of the 'Clap For Our Carers' campaign left their homes to acknowledge NHS workers and carers who are tirelessly battling coronavirus.

The nationwide event struck a chord across the country - and in Thurrock many neighbourhoods turned out in force to pay a local tribute.

Typical were the scenes in Lodge Lane, Grays, captured for Thurrock Nub News by Amanda Sweeney who said: "It was wonderful, it really brought tears to my eyes."

Amanda, who works for Thurrock CVBS, added: "It was so humbling and so moving. I was clapping for all the key workers out there as at Thurrock CVS we are supporting the community with the volunteer drive to help residents during this time. We are pushing people to sign up."

You can do so here.

And at the Port of Tilbury the Saga cruise ship Spirit of Discovery, which has been laid up for the duration of the crisis, was lit up with its own special message thanking the NHS.

More than 11,658 cases of coronavirus have been confirmed in the UK, but the actual number of cases is estimated to be much higher.

Latest figures - up to 5pm on 25 March - indicate 578 people who tested positive for the respiratory infection have died.