19,000 reasons to be cheerful!

Victoria Atkins MP visits the vaccination site at Louth County Hospital.

With over 19,000 residents now having received their first dose of the vaccine at the Louth centre since its opening back in December, Ms Atkins thanked Sandra Williamson, Chief Operating Officer East Locality, NHS Lincolnshire CCG and managers of the site for their hard work in making the local delivery a success.

The promising news comes as over 15 million people have been vaccinated nationally, with Ms Atkins discussing how the rollout will continue locally with the team at Louth as we move through the next phases of the programme.

Patients attending their vaccination appointments when Ms Atkins visited on Friday (February 12) also expressed their excitement, happiness and hope after receiving the vaccine and commented on the efficiency of the site in administering their jabs.

Victoria Atkins MP with a member of the Lions in the hospital car park.

Ms Atkins also thanked members from the Lions Clubs in Louth, Coningsby, Tattershall, Horncastle and Woodhall Spa who have been volunteering to run the car park and help direct patients towards the vaccination centre.

Ms Atkins spent some time with the Lions and assisted them in their volunteer work.

The Louth and Horncastle MP said: “It was great to see so many people attending the local vaccination site at Louth Hospital last week.

“During the visit, I was able to see for myself the immense logistical operation of the vaccine rollout and how the efforts of everyone involved are helping to keep our residents safe.

“There was a great community spirit as people received their vaccinations and it is encouraging to see a great turnout so far.”

Ms Atkins added: “I would like to thank all NHS staff, volunteers and members of the armed forces across the county for their hard work in the vaccine rollout and for helping keep us safe from Covid-19.

“I encourage all residents to get the jab when they receive the call. The vaccination programme is how we are going to step out of the lockdown and is vital in tackling this dreadful virus.”

• The current guidance with regards to the vaccine is that if you are in the top four categories and have still not had a jab, call 119 or visit the NHS website first before calling your GP for an appointment.