MP hails news of extra vaccination centres for Northwich

Mr Amesbury said he had been troubled after hearing initial reports under 50s might have to travel outside the town.

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Now two extra pharmacy sites have been announced for the Northwich area – one in Hartford and one in Barnton – operational towards the end of May.

Appointments will be available through the national booking service.

In addition, there are plans for a roving unit to target ‘harder to reach’ communities, more remote locations and areas of low take-up, with Northwich Memorial Court identified as a possible location.

The Labour MP, who had raised concerns with Cheshire West and Chester council, the director of public health and the health authority, said: "I’m relieved the local NHS has agreed to ramp up accessibility for the Covid vaccination programme in the Northwich area.

"I was concerned the previous situation would have caused considerable inconvenience for individuals, especially those reliant on public transport. A further worry was the risk a dearth of local facilities could have undermined the immunisation programme if people decided not to take up the vaccination.

Mike Amesbury MP after receiving his first dose of the vaccine in his home town of Frodsham

"I understand I was not the only one to have been troubled by the previous situation. Well done to the local NHS and community pharmacies for listening and responding.

"Personally, I have now had my first and second doses in my home town of Frodsham and the whole process ran very smoothly.

"I’m grateful that I am now, hopefully, fully protected but still exercising caution in terms of social distancing."

If you are eligible for a Covid-19 vaccination, but yet to book an appointment, you can do this now by contacting the national booking service via www.nhs.uk/covidvaccination or by calling 119.

Alternatively, you can wait to be contacted by your GP practice.