Chase the Rainbow: Friends set up South Tyneside Facebook group to spread a smile

But now, as households across the UK prepare to clap for our carers and take part in a round of applause in support of key workers, the South Shields women behind the group are calling for pictures of stars to be stuck up in people’s windows too.

Rebecca Thorpe set up the Facebook group Chasing Rainbows – South Tyneside along with friends Kira Thompson and Shannon Handyside to keep the community’s spirits up during a time of uncertainty.

The idea of drawing rainbows to make people smile has taken the country by storm, so now the friends are looking for something new.

Rebecca, 26, told the Gazette: “We then came up with the idea to brighten up the streets with stars, for our key workers, to show appreciation and love and respect for them all!

“Especially with today [Thursday, March 26] being the day we all applaud at our doors for the NHS at 8pm tonight.”

At time of writing, almost 1,000 had signed up to the social media group, with countless of rainbow drawings, paintings and other artistic creations being shared online.

Stars will be the group’s theme for the next two weeks, in honour of the borough’s key workers.

Rebecca added: “Show them that they are the stars keeping South Tyneside shining bright, day and night!”

Click here for more information about Chase the Rainbow South Tyneside and to become a member.