People who are among the first in the west of Kent to receive a Covid-19 vaccination have expressed their delight at taking a small step towards normality.

Older folk are among those to be offered the jab first, and those with appointments at Abbey Court Medical Centre in Tunbridge Wells today seemed pleased to be able to receive the new treatment.

Husband and wife Brian and Delia Aylard told us they had "no hesitations" when it came to getting in line for the vaccine.

"Of course we were a bit apprehensive, but as soon as we were offered it we knew we should take it," they said. "It is slightly less of a worry but you still have to be careful so we will still be really strict with the rules at Christmas.

"All the volunteers were very good. It's going like clockwork in there. We felt very at ease."

A nationwide effort to deliver the vaccination to older people and those in higher risk categories is now taking place, giving some hope that in 2021 life may begin to return to something closer to the pre-pandemic normality.

GP services in Kent and Medway began delivering the vaccine today, and at least nine primary care-based Covid-19 vaccination services will open in Kent and Medway this week.

Dr Navin Kumta, Ashford GP and clinical chair of Kent and Medway Clinical Commissioning Group, said: "This is fantastic news. General practice will play an integral part of rolling out the vaccine across Kent and Medway. It is a massive step forward in our fight against Covid-19.

"It is a big task and it will take time. Patients will be invited when it’s their turn, so there is no need to call your surgery. We know people want to find out more but please be patient and keep surgery phone lines free for others who need appointments and prescriptions."

Donald Howes said it felt "absolutely super" to be among the first in the Tunbridge Wells area to get the new jab.

The 82-year-old said: "I was told last week I have been booked in for this week. I was pleased to get it.

"They have all worked so hard to get it to us. For them to turn it around this quickly and to offer it to me is just marvellous. This stuff usually takes 10 years."

Despite being among the first in line, Frank and Janet Cornell said they still plan to take a cautious approach to the festive season.

"It is such a relief for us to have it," they said. "We hope it means we can see our grandchildren soon because it's been a long time.

"This is the first Christmas we will have to spend on our own ever so it won't be the same but it's better to be safe than sorry."

In Herne Bay patients lined the entrance to the Queen Victoria Memorial Hospital earlier as injections were given to almost 1,000 over-80s.

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