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Coronavirus hospital song wins approval from Paul Simon

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A hit Simon and Garfunkel song performed by Welsh NHS staff has won approval from its star writer - sending the video viral across the world.

US singer-songwriter Paul Simon said the rendition of Bridge Over Troubled Water was "extraordinary".

Medics, construction workers and council staff were filmed for the performance at the field hospital built in the north Wales resort of Llandudno.

He described staff at Ysbyty Enfys - Rainbow Hospital in Welsh - as "brave".

Image source, Getty Images/Conwy council
Image caption,

Singer Paul Simon has praised the performance at Ysbyty Enfys in Llandudno

The video features messages from broadcaster and performer Jools Holland, and the Hollywood Welsh acting stars Mathew Rhys and Rhys Ifans.

The performance features nurses and doctors, and those who helped build the temporary coronavirus field hospital.

They are also joined by Conwy council's staff choir and Welsh language singing stars - all in tribute to the NHS.

The hospital has been built at the Venue Cymru theatre and conference centre in the town.

Singer Simon said renaming it Ysbyty Enfys was a "symbol of hope".

Caernarfon-based musicians Manon Llwyd and John Williams volunteered to lead the project as artistic directors and producers.

"We would like to thank all of the performers for sharing their talents and to Venue Cymru for great teamwork and for trusting us in our work and to Paul Simon for his beautiful song and his support," said Ms Llwyd.

Sarah Ecob, who is the general manager of Venue Cymru, added: "We can't wait to get back to shows and events but in the meantime we will continue to support the amazing health and support staff working at Ysbyty Enfys."

The video notched up more than 80,000 views since Simon reposted it on his own Facebook page on Wednesday.