More over-65s take up Covid-19 vaccine in Telford than anywhere else in country

NHS England statistics show that 97.68 per cent of people in the age bracket within Telford & Wrekin have had their first dose, the highest percentage in the UK.

The Shropshire Council area was 34th on the list, with a regional uptake of 93.32 per cent so far.

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It comes after criticism that hundreds of appointments have been wasted at Telford International Centre, and that more needs to be done to get jabs into arms.

A statement on Telford & Wrekin Council’s social media said: “We’re top in the country. We’re top of the leaderboard when it comes to vaccination uptake for the over-65s

“Thanks to all the staff and volunteers who have helped make this happen across the borough. And thank you to everyone who has had their vaccination.”

Earlier this month the council’s leader Shaun Davies said the government’s centralised approach was causing “unnecessary delays”.

It came after only 100 vaccines were administered at the centre, despite the TIC having capacity to give 1,500 jabs.

Official vaccination figures revealed yesterday that 159,567 vaccine doses had been given in the county by the end of last week, which included more than 104,000 over-65s who have had their first jab.