The Royal Mail has painted letterboxes “NHS” blue to thank workers during the coronavirus crisis.

Five boxes in London, Manchester, Edinburgh, Belfast and Cardiff, have been repainted alongside “Thank You NHS”.

Royal Mail say the postboxes were chosen to represent “all four UK countries.

The fifth at the Trafford General Hospital marks the birthplace of the NHS, founded by Aneurin ‘Nye’ Bevan in 1948.

Shane O’Riordain, Managing Director of Regulation, Corporate Affairs and Marketing, Royal Mail said:

“We are showing our support and thanks to the many NHS workers across the UK who are working tirelessly to help those affected by the coronavirus crisis.

“The special blue postboxes are a small token of our thanks for the exceptional service NHS workers are providing across all four UK nations.

“At Royal Mail, we are working hard to deliver the most comprehensive service we can to all our customers in challenging circumstances.

“We understand that the Universal Postal Service provides a lifeline to businesses and communities everywhere during the coronavirus crisis.

“We are working closely with pharmacy companies and NHS trusts across the UK. And we are delivering many prescriptions and hospital appointments.

“This is a key priority for us.

“We would like to thank all our colleagues across the UK for helping to keep the nation connected in such challenging circumstances.”