BUILDINGS and landmarks are being lit in the colours of the rainbow to spread hope and show support for key workers.

Among them are Sunderland's Northern Spire Bridge, the National Trust's Penshaw Monument and Rushpool Hall at Saltburn.

Landmarks are also being lit blue to support the NHS and green for carers and other key workers.

The Northern Echo:

Leader of Sunderland City Council, Councillor Greame Miller, said: "Rainbows have become a widely recognised symbol of hope during the coronavirus crisis, so we're delighted to be lighting two of our best loved landmarks in the colours of the rainbow to bring cheer at this time of unprecedented uncertainty.

"This mirrors the fantastic community spirit we've seen in Sunderland, with colourful rainbow drawings popping up in windows, people in their hundreds coming forward to volunteer and some amazing acts of kindness on the part of our residents."

The Northern Echo:

National Trust general manager, Mick Wilkes, said: "As the owners and carers for Penshaw Monument and woodland we are delighted to be working together with Sunderland City Council and be participating in the civic thanks to all the collective agencies working to keep us safe at this extremely difficult time. Lighting Penshaw Monument as a beacon of gratitude to add to the city skyline is a small thanks giving to so many people."

The Northern Echo:

A spokesperson for Rushpool Hall said the venue was being illuminated to say thanks to key workers.