County among top areas for Covid-19 vaccinations

Parts of Northumberland are among the areas in the UK leading the way when it comes to Covid vaccine take-up.

Morpeth South and West is second. Official figures show that in this area, 5,254 people had been given both their jabs as of September 12 – 90.43 per cent of the population aged over 16.

Elsewhere, Rothbury and Longframlington (89.94 per cent of the population aged over 16), Amble, Shilbottle and Swarland (89.07 per cent of the population aged over 16) and Longhoughton and Alnmouth (88.03 per cent of the population aged over 16) are ranked fifth, 18th and 56th highest in the country respectively.

Richard Hay, head of planning and operations for Northumberland CCG, said: “We are immensely proud of the tremendous response we have had from Northumberland residents coming forward to receive their Covid-19 vaccinations.

“We are especially pleased with how many of our young people have come forward to do their bit for their communities. It's a wonderful example of the community spirit we have in Northumberland.

“This is going to be incredibly important as we head into what is likely to be a very challenging winter period for health and care services.

“I would urge anybody who has yet to come forward for their first or second dose to take advantage of the evergreen offer available to them.

“And don’t forget that those simple things such as ‘hands, face, space, and fresh air’ are still important to help stop the spread of this terrible disease and to help avoid NHS services becoming overwhelmed.”