Over 43,000 vaccinated in Doncaster, as 99-year-old offered jab in Manchester finally gets injection near home

And the figure now includes a 99-year-old from Woodlands whose family were worried when her offer of a jab was made for an appointment in Manchester.

Anthony Fitzgerald, the director of strategy and delivery at the Doncaster NHS Clinical Commissioning Group, revealed at the organisation’s governors meeting on Thursday afternoon that the total number of people in the borough who have received their first dose of the vaccine was over 43,000.

Describing it as a very positive story, he said: “We have five primary care sites administering coronavirus vaccinations, and two hospital hubs. Since December 15, we have vaccinated over 43,000 first doses in Doncaster.

"That includes the vast majority of care home residents and over 80s, and the first four cohorts who should be offered the vaccine should have it by February 15, and we feel confident we’re on track to meet that.

"It is a credit to all organisations involved and the army of volunteers who have helped.”

CCG chairman Dr David Crichton added his thanks to the volunteers for their help.

Among those who are now included in the 43,000 who have had their jabs is Frances Spriggs, aged 99, whose family had feared she had been missed out after she had not been vaccinated by the middle of January.

She was finally offered a jab – but in Manchester or York. Her family thought the journey was too much for her when she lived close to a vaccination centre in her community.

Her son, John Spriggs, confirmed she had now been vaccinated after receiving a call locally to have the injection at Adwick Leisure Centre.

He said: “I took her there in her wheelchair. As for the actual injection, she didn't even realise she’s had it. By the time she’d finished talking to them it was over.

“She’s relieved that she‘s had it.”

Her family were keen for her to be vaccinated as she has carers who visit her to help her, as she broke an arm last year.

John, aged 74, was vaccinated on the same day as his mum at the venue. They had the Oxford AstraZeneca jab.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.