TODAY marks the first national Thank You Day, an opportunity to thank those who have gone out of their way to help throughout the Covid pandemic.

After 18 months of Covid restrictions, Thank You Day gives people the chance to express gratitude to those who have checked in on us, made sure neighbours or even just stayed at home to help suppress the coronavirus.

Today (July 4) is the day before the NHS's birthday and a perfect time to celebrate anyone who has made a difference over the course of the pandemic.

READ MORE: Celebrity chef joins forces with Scottish charity to celebrate 'Thank You Day'

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: "Thank You Day gives us the chance to express in person our gratitude to those who've gone out of their way to offer time and help throughout the Covid-19 pandemic. I am hugely grateful to all who have done so."

Sturgeon shared her Thank You Day message in a video.

Presiding Officer of the Scottish Parliament Alison Johnstone MSP said: “The past 18 months have been an incredibly difficult period for many people across Scotland, affecting the lives of each and every one of us.  

"I want to take this opportunity on behalf of the Scottish Parliament to say thank you to all those who have made a difference, put others before themselves and for persevering for the benefit of the country. Thank you.”

Other staff from the Scottish Parliament said thank you in their own way in a short video below.

Health Secretary Humza Yousaf said: "Can't express enough gratitude on #ThankYouDay to the people who work tirelessly in our NHS and across Social Care for their herculean efforts throughout the pandemic. We will not just give you warm words, tweets or gestures but ensure you are rewarded for all that you do for us."

Debbie Matthews is one of the group of people across the UK that proposed the idea of Thank You Day. She is a stroke survivor and planned a "Tartan Tea Party" with Chest Heart and Stroke Scotland, encouraging others to join in across Scotland.