Bristol A and E doctor thanks public for 'amazing support' during coronavirus lockdown'

A doctor helping to save lives at the Bristol Royal Infirmary has thanked the city's residents for their "amazing support" during lockdown.

Joe Ralley is among those working on the frontline during the coronavirus pandemic, as a junior doctor in the A&E department at the hospital.

He has created a video to encourage people to keep up their support by staying at home.

Dr Ralley has been a doctor for around five years and joined Bristol Royal Infirmary in February.

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Dr Ralley added: "More than ever before, we are taking into account the health of the public with every decision.

"It means a lot to see many people support the NHS, be it through the applause during Clap for Carers or 'thank you' posters in people's windows.

"Like everybody else, we feel the same baseline level of anxiety and concern for what's happening, and feel the risk that our loved ones are exposed to.

"Just being supported and cheered on and appreciated is really great for morale, especially given the last five to ten years when NHS workers have been going through difficult times."

Dr Ralley continued: "The reaction has been really lovely, it's been amazing how widely it's been shared on social media. We didn't know how much engagement we would get but we've had responses saying it's quite powerful.

"I think it's really important to emphasise the positives."