GP practices in South Cheshire have begun the crucial task of rolling out a COVID-19 vaccine.

Initially, the roll-out is aimed at protecting those at highest risk from coronavirus, this follows the launch of the vaccination programme in hospitals last week.

In Cheshire, a local vaccination service went live in Winsford today (Tuesday) and Frodsham and Macclesfield are to follow later in the week with Crewe among the locations across the county set to start vaccinating "as soon as possible" in the coming weeks.

Geoff Greenhough, aged 84, became the first person in Cheshire to receive a COVID-19 vaccination at a GP-led service in Winsford.

To help the NHS deliver the COVID-19 vaccination programme effectively, people are being asked to follow some simple guidance:

• GPs are to contact people in the priority groups when it is their turn to receive the vaccine, so do not contact the NHS to seek a vaccine before then.

• Those invited for a vaccine need to make sure they attend appointments

• They must wear a face covering and abide by social distancing and hand hygiene guidance.

GP Patrick Kearns, Medical Director at Cheshire East Integrated Care Partnership, said: "It is fantastic news that we will start vaccinating residents aged over 80 this week, with further locations in Cheshire East due to start vaccinating in the coming weeks.

"When you are invited to receive a vaccination, it is really important that you act upon it to help protect yourself and your loved ones and help us get on top of this awful virus."

GP Dr Chris Ritchieson, Medical Director at Cheshire West Integrated Care Partnership, said: "I am delighted that Cheshire West GPs are set to start rolling out a COVID-19 vaccine across local communities. Clearly, the sooner we are able to protect our most vulnerable residents, the better.

"Given the scale of the task, this will be a marathon, not a sprint, but we also know that every marathon starts with a single step."

Alongside delivering a COVID-19 vaccine, GP practices across Cheshire are offering routine appointments to those that need them.

If in any doubt NHS 111 first – either by dialling 111 or online at: 111.nhs.uk