Joe McElderry thanks NHS for their 'incredible' work as he reveals childhood dream of becoming a paramedic

The South Shields star made a touching video tribute to thank those working to combat coronavirus, hailing the NHS as ‘incredible.’

Speaking from his home, the singer said he was taking part in the Clap for Carers every week in honour of the NHS who are on the frontline of the pandemic.

The video was shared which was shared on the South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust Facebook page, with Joe specifically thanking those who work for the trust in our region.

The 28-year-old said: “I just wanted to let everybody know at South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust know that what you're doing is absolutely incredible and your work is not going unnoticed.

“To hear all of the stories of the lives that you are saving and the fight against coronavirus is absolutely awe inspiring.”

And Joe – who shot to fame after winning the X Factor in 2009 – revealed how he had ambitions to be a doctor or paramedic himself one day before he got into performing.

Urging NHS staff to stay safe, the star said he was sending them lots of love and said he had been taking part in the Clap for our Carers.

Joe said: “I used to want to be a paramedic or a doctor before I got the bug for performing and hearing all of the stories is incredible.

“So please keep up the good work, be kind to yourselves, stay safe.

“I have been out every week clapping for the carers and the NHS, so I will continue to do that.

"I am sending you a huge round of applause now and sending you lots of love.

“And remember stay safe.”

Sharing the video, South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust said on its Facebook page: “A special shout out from South Shields' very own Joe McElderry, who has been out every Thursday taking part in #ClapForCarers.”

Praising the support of Joe and members of the public in the region, South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust’s’ Chief Executive Ken Bremner said comes as a real boost to staff during this difficult time.

Mr Bremner said: “We have been extremely touched by all the wonderful messages of support, as well as the generous and varied donations we have received from people and organisations across the country.

“These are exceptionally challenging times for our staff as they continue to give our patients the best possible care during the coronavirus pandemic and it is a real boost to know that the public are behind us every step of the way and want to show their support and admiration.”

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