'You have my total respect' - Sunderland pays tribute to health heroes fighting the coronavirus pandemic

As the city celebrated the NHS in lighting landmarks blue, hundreds of you got in touch with your own words of gratitude for their hard work.

Here are some of your messages from the Sunderland Echo Facebook page:

Tracey Hall: “While the NHS workers are total hero’s to whom I am eternally grateful to, there are lots of staff in the private sector frontline now currently also putting their lives at risk not receiving any recognition.

“Total respect to all care retail and domestic staff keeping us safe.”

Bev Smurthwaite: “You are all doing awesome, everyone who works in the NHS cleaners, admin, doctors, nurses to every carer also manning our nursing homes looking after the vulnerable and the elderly you should all get a massive bonus after all this is over. Stay safe and hugs to you all and all your families.”

Bev Crute: “To everyone of the NHS staff, care workers and everyone else who are putting their lives at risk in these difficult and uncertain times I want to thank you. You have my total respect.”

Mandy Yates: “Amazing job that you are all doing even when knowing your families are waiting at home for you.”

Allison McDonald: “Thank you to every single one of our NHS workers. I couldn't do your job normally never mind in a situation like this. You all deserve a medal for the work you do.”

Charmayne Tomlinson: “As a care worker I would like to thank everyone for their support and also say a huge thank you to everyone who is a key worker from transportation all the way to the NHS.”

Joyce Walker: “To each and every one of you who are risking your own health and that of your families to keep us safe and well. A massive massive thank you.”

Bill Walton: “All of the NHS deserve our upmost respect. Thank you for your service and dedication.”

William Gillis: “You are all doing a fantastic job and will have the eternal gratitude of the vast majority of the people of this country.”