First look as iconic Sunderland landmarks become rainbow messages of hope to key workers during coronavirus outbreak

Sunderland’s Northern Spire Bridge and the National Trust’s Penshaw Monument were illuminated with a spectrum of colour in the city’s latest bit to show support and hope during these uncertain times.

Leader of Sunderland City Council, Councillor Greame Miller, said: "Rainbows have become a widely recognised symbol of hope during the coronavirus crisis, so we're delighted to be lighting two of our best-loved landmarks in the colours of the rainbow to bring cheer at this time of unprecedented uncertainty.

"This mirrors the fantastic community spirit we've seen in Sunderland, with colourful rainbow drawings popping up in windows across our city, people in their hundreds coming forward to volunteer and some amazing acts of kindness on the part of our residents."

The eye-catching landmarks will also be lit green in tribute to carers and other key workers on alternate Thursdays, starting tonight – April 30 – to coincide with the weekly Clap for Carers display.

They will continue to be lit blue in support of the NHS every other Thursday. Pre-programmed lighting will continue as normal.

They will be joined by the Beacon of Light, Fulwell Mill, Keel Square, and the white lighthouse at Seaburn.

The light displays will run from dusk to dawn with the exception of Seaburn lighthouse which will switch off at 10.30pm and the Northern Spire bridge which switches off at midnight.

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