NHS organisations across the Bradford district are celebrating the NHS’ 75th birthday with a big tea party.

Today (July 5) marks 75 years of the NHS and staff are celebrating with tea parties to help raise money for local NHS charities.

The NHS in Bradford District and Craven is also taking the opportunity to thank all NHS staff and volunteers, past and present, who have made the organisation what it is.

The partnership is made up of local NHS organisations, local councils, independent care organisations and the voluntary and community sector. It forms part of the NHS West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board and serves a population of around 650,000.

Buildings in the district, including Bradford City Hal,l will be lit up blue to mark the occasion and people are also invited to wear blue to show their support for the NHS.

As part of NHS birthday celebrations, staff in the region have been describing what the NHS means to them.

Mel Pickup, place lead at the partnership shared her take on what the NHS means to her in a video, while chair Elaine Appelbee, said: “I am grateful that the NHS has provided my family with employment over the decades and safe care whenever we have needed it.”

Mechele, who works for Airedale NHS Foundation Trust said: “As the lead for research and innovation I am extremely proud to be part of the NHS.

"Our team works tirelessly to help find safer more effective treatments to improve the health of the population. A big thank you to all who take part in NHS research. You make research happen!”

Ayesha, specialist dietitian at St Luke’s Hospital in Bradford, said: “The NHS is a wonderful organisation that provides free healthcare in a loving and caring environment. I feel privileged to be part of it.”

Amelia, who works for the Pennine Breast Screening Unit at Bradford Teaching Hospitals, added: “The NHS has given me the courage to be myself and to help others in their hardest time. It’s an amazing opportunity to develop yourself and your career and I’m just grateful.”

Fozia, who works for Bradford District Care Trust said: “I have been a part of the NHS for 15 years and have worked in many roles from starting as a ward clerk to working with the bed managers and most recently working with carers. I am passionate to help and support carers in the community and within our services.”