Clapping for key workers on the border of Wickford and Runwell, 2020

On the 31st of April 2020 the torrential rain stopped just long enough for the residents of Runwell Road to clap and cheer in thanks to the carers and key workers who are getting us through the pandemic. The ‘Thursdays at 8 o’clock’ ritual has a different feel and sound every week.

As a main road, there is usually non-stop traffic, but only 2 cars pass along the wet road during the recording. In the distance, a train at Wickford station can be heard sounding its horn. The lack of traffic has strengthened our sense of community and made it possible for us to see and speak to each other in a way that was impossible before.