'You are all so brave' - Read schoolgirl's touching letter to frontline NHS heroes

Six-year-old Amelia Mclaren, from Hebburn, penned a heartfelt letter to medical staff at Newcastle’s Royal Victoria Infirmary, where her nana Joan works as an A&E nurse.

The touching note, which thanks NHS workers for their bravery and life-saving care, now hangs in the A&E staff room alongside a painting of a rainbow.

Mum-of-two Kayleigh Mclaren told the Gazette: “When I first saw the letter I burst into tears.

“I called Amelia’s nana and read it out to her over the phone.

“We left it on our doorstep so that nana could come and pick it up. We waved to her from the window.”

Kayleigh, who is also mum to four-year-old Freddie, said her family has been worried about Joan going off to work during the coronavirus pandemic.

They usually spend a lot of time together, but have been unable to do so due to the risks of the illness spreading.

Amelia’s letter also asked the RVI’s doctors and nurses to “keep an eye” on nana Joan so she could come home safely to her loved ones.

The note said: “To all the doctors and nurses at the RVI. Well done for saving people who are not very well.

“Keep trying hard. You are all so brave. Thank you for saving lives, we really appreciate it.

“Keep an eye on my nana for me please. I really miss her and would like to give her a big hug soon.”

Meanwhile, it has been announced that NHS staff are to be given free car parking with immediate effect at hospitals and other medical facilities for the duration of the Covid-19 outbreak.

Social care staff and health service volunteers will also be exempt from parking charges.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock said: "Our NHS is facing an unprecedented challenge, and I will do everything I can to ensure our dedicated staff have whatever they need during this unprecedented time.

"My enormous gratitude goes out to the many NHS Trusts and other organisations already providing free car parking and I urge others to do the same with our backing.