This is the viral moment neighbours leave a birthday cake outside the home of an 80-year-old woman during the Spanish lockdown before erupting in a chorus of ‘Happy Birthday’ as the OAP sobs with gratitude.
The incident was filmed in the neighbourhood of Lavapies in the central Spanish capital Madrid, and the footage was later posted on Twitter where it has gone viral with 2.6 million views.
According to local media, 80-year-old Charo, who lives alone, celebrated her birthday during the first days of lockdown in the country and isolated neighbours decided to surprise her.
Video Credit: Newsflash/@lavapiesdondeva
In the heartwarming footage, a male neighbour leaves a cake in front of Charo’s front door while keeping a safe distance.
The OAP is seen holding back the tears as she notices neighbours hanging out of their windows to watch the moment.
The male neighbour explains that they all chipped in for the cake before erupting in a chorus of ‘Happy Birthday’ as the tearful woman thanks everyone.
One neighbour called Nacho told local media that the neighbours communicated with each other to organise the surprise celebration.
Local media said that there was a strong sense of community in the neighbourhood they have come together because some of them are in danger of being evicted over fears the properties are unsafe.
Nacho explained: “Charo is 80 years old, she is a person at risk. We do not know what is going on with our homes, but she is lucky because she has a contract for one more year. However, others have been evicted.
“She is going through a tough time and the least we could do as neighbours is support each other, especially where vulnerable people are concerned.”
Charo receives the birthday cake by neighbours during isolation 
Charo receives the birthday cake by neighbours during isolation
For the next two weeks, Spanish residents can only leave their home for work or to visit the supermarket, pharmacy, bank or medical centre. Locals can also leave their house to attend elderly loved ones or those dependent on others, but even then they should keep a safe distance from other people.
Dog owners are also allowed to leave their homes to walk their pets, but only one person at a time.
According to the Health Ministry, 11,178 cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in the country while 491 people have died.
In Madrid, 4,165 cases have been reported and 213 people have succumbed to the virus.
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Story By: Ana Lacasa, Sub-Editor: Joseph Golder, Agency: Newsflash
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