UNSUNG heroes of the pandemic – such as NHS workers, delivery drivers and supermarket workers – are at the top of Britain’s new pecking order and the most respected in society, a study shows.

Research into attitudes during the coronavirus crisis shows a remarkable change in the social pecking order of how people who do different jobs are now regarded.

Almost all those in key worker roles – such as food shop staff, bin men, delivery drivers, postmen and carers – have joined NHS staff and paramedics and are now held in higher esteem than before.

A study for toiletries giant, Right Guard, found that while the health and social work industry made the most difference during the pandemic (56%), followed by the wholesale and retail trade (34%), the Government were bottom of the list (15%) along with the education sector (7%).

The findings come as Right Guard launches a nationwide competition to find the biggest unsung hero of the pandemic, with the prize of an incredible £2,000 towards a bucket-list moment of a lifetime for the winner.

The survey of more than 2,000 adults found that two-thirds of people now have more appreciation for essential shop workers and delivery drivers, while more than half feel the same for posties and bin men.

A total of 10 nomination categories will be chosen and notified of the next stage.

Each lucky applicant will then be required to send a video of them speaking to camera, explaining exactly why the person they are nominating should be crowned Britain’s Unsung Hero and awarded £2,000 towards that life-changing experience.

Do you know someone who’s gone above and beyond to lift spirits within the community, or perhaps a fundraiser who has surprised even themselves? There’s no minimum or maximum age.

To nominate your unsung champion, go rightguardcompetition.co.uk and select one (or more) of the following categories…

• NHS Worker • Carer • Great Neighbour • Bin Man • Shop-worker • Sports/Fitness Legend • Charity Fundraiser • Community Hero • Spirit Raiser • Best of the Rest (please specify)