LANCASHIRE Telegraph readers have had their say on whether the now-traditional Thursday evening clap for carers should come to an end after next week.

For nine weeks now, millions of people across the country have shown their appreciation for carers and health workers with public displays of applause

As the tenth week approaches however, the event’s founder London-based Annemarie Plas has suggested that though the clap had helped to raise public morale the increasingly politicised nature of the ritual meant that it would be best to let it come to a natural end.

She said: "Without getting too political, I share some of the opinions that some people have about it becoming politicised.

"I think the narrative is starting to change and I don't want the clap to be negative."

Ms Plas’ proposal has found support amongst some of the Telegraph’s readership, who feel that more practical measures are called for instead.

Kimberly Burton said: “I'm afraid I always show appreciation for the NHS, they are and have been incredible for me and my family, but no, I don't clap.

“I find it's hypocritical people clapping, then the same people I know not social distancing.

“It is a substantial pay rise they need, not hype!”

These comments were echoed by other readers who responded to a question put by the paper as to whether the event should be prolonged.

Phil Graham said: "I've not clapped for a month, I think it's patronising towards the NHS.

"What's clapping actually going to achieve? It's not going give them a much-deserved pay rise or the PPE they need - I don't need clap to appreciate the hard work the NHS does."

Similarly, Martin Smith said: “I think it’s had its day, we all love and respect what the NHS has done but to be fair maybe we should start clapping for the government to start funding it correctly from now on.”

Others however feel that the clap has been an important bonding experience for the nation as the unprecedented crisis continues to put people under immense strain.

Kirsty Wilson said: “My family will keep on clapping pots, pans and all and yes they maybe doing 'their job' but nowhere in that job description did it say put yourself at risk daily with a pandemic and risk taking it home to your family or don't see them for weeks at a time.

“Well done NHS and all key workers.”

Ayesha Tabassum added: “Personally, I think it should be known as a 'key workers' clap and not the 'Clap for the NHS' and then briefly appreciate everybody else.”

As it stands clap-for-carers events are likely to continue across the country, even as people in various situations debate its merits.