Sign Link
1395. Sam McClean
Sam McClean, from Belfast, is decorating shopfronts and vehicles across Northern Ireland with his rainbow vinyl stickers to show support for the NHS and frontline workers.
Sam, a self-employed sign-maker, started printing balloon-shaped vinyl stickers in praise of the NHS for businesses, community groups and families to display on vehicles, homes and in shop front windows. Sam’s signs have now spread throughout Northern Ireland, with all profits going to help charities, community groups and good causes across Northern Ireland, including NHS Charities, with over £100,000 raised so far.
In a personal letter to Sam, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said:
“I wanted to write personally to thank you for all that you are doing to support our wonderful NHS.
“You have dressed the windows of Belfast with rainbows, imbuing us with hope and uniting us in gratitude for the courage of all those on the front line who are risking their lives to save others.
“Your uplifting mission has bought colour to cars and shopfronts across the capital while also raising a fantastic amount to support NHS charities.
“So today I am delighted to recognise your service to others by making you the UK’s 1395th Point of Light – and the thirty-fifth honouree in this special series of awards for those who are supporting our communities as we come together to defeat Coronavirus.”
Brandon Lewis, Northern Ireland Secretary, said:
“I am delighted that Sam has been commended for his hard work by the Prime Minister. His efforts will make a real difference for charities and community groups across Northern Ireland, and he’s a great example of how people can make a positive contribution to their communities during COVID-19.”
Sam said:
“I’m just a normal person and this has given me a new outlook on life. Now I want to do more – I’m proud to be able to donate to these good causes. Both sides of the community have come together to deal with COVID-19 in Northern Ireland and this money will be put back into the community for everyone.”