A convoy of trucks and vans will again wend its way from Woodville's R Swain & Sons yard into Swadlincote tomorrow (Thurs) to pay tribute to NHS and key workers.

The procession is now a familiar sight, with bystanders lining the route and families waving from windows, as the vehicles head to the town centre to stop in the bus park opposite the ambulance and fire station, police station and Swadlincote Health Centre for the 8pm Clap for Carers.

The convoy is organised by the haulage company's night shift team of fitters Daniel Smith, Ashley Laud, Ben Howlett, Tim Miles and shift supervisor Gavin Cotton.

Both Gavin and Ashley's partners are nurses currently working on the frontline caring for coronavirus patients.

Gavin, whose partner usually works on a women's surgical ward but has been redeployed to intensive care at Queen's Hospital Burton, told Swadlincote Nub News: "Ben had the lightbulb moment and came up with the idea of taking a few trucks out to the main gate to mark Clap for Carers and sound our airhorns and flash our lights.

"It just developed from there.

"The second week we did the same, with a few other companies joining us and then on week three we took some vehicles down to Swadlincote bus park for 8pm.

"The following week the convoy grew with a couple of other local companies - including B L Trigg Haulage and Crouch Recovery - joining us.

"Last week we upped our game a little when around 20 members of the Easy Riders motorcyclists accompanied the truck and van convoy of about 15 vehicles.

"It's fantastic to see people getting behind the idea and lining the route and we are looking forward to doing it all again tomorrow."

This week, taking heed of comments about noise along some residential areas of the route, the vehicles will only sound their horns along Civic Way and Nadin Way.

Supporters are also being reminded to adhere to the two metre distancing rule.

"We hope to make the run out every week for Clap for Carers to show our unwavering support to the NHS and other key workers," added Gavin.