"Just get it done": First people receive Covid jabs at Cornwall's new mass vaccination centre
Several have described their vaccine experience at the Royal Cornwall Showground near Wadebridge
Last updated 2nd Feb 2021
As Cornwall's second mass vaccination centre opens its doors, we have asked people getting the jab what their experience was like.
Officials say the site at the Royal Cornwall Showground near Wadebridge will be able to vaccinate 1,000 people a day.
It will operate 12 hours a day, seven days a week, along with the first centre at the Stithians Showground near Redruth.
What is it like when you get the vaccine?
One of the first people to receive their jab at the Royal Cornwall Showground was 77-year-old Joe Foster, who told us it was quick and easy.
"It's important, it's your life! If you want to finish it without getting a jab it's your choice but my choice was to keep my life going so I've had the jab.
"It was no problem at all. Everyone just led you and the worker was lovely so you can't ask for anything better.
"Like I say it was only a jab so it's nice and easy, nice and quick - no fear no probs".
76-year-old Beryl Martin from Minions also received the vaccination on Monday.
"I can only say get it done, get it done! There's no sense in not getting it done unless you've got other reasons like allergies and stuff.
"I'm a retired health visitor so I know very, very well the importance of vaccination and understand the difference it will make if we're going to get back to any normal life at all".
How does the process work?
Health bosses say that while the addition the vaccination centre means the NHS can expand its roll-out, this will take some time, so please be patient. The NHS will be in touch with you when it's your turn.
Anyone attending an appointment at the vaccine centre will be greeted by volunteers who will marshal car parks and register them when they arrive. The centre has been organised to allow for social distancing.
They will receive a health check and a pre-vaccination assessment before the vaccine, and then be observed for 15 minutes afterwards.
Those who require extra support from a carer should have them attend the appointment but is asked this is kept to a maximum of one other person to maintain social distancing. Wheelchairs will be available for anyone who requires them, and disabled parking is available on site.
People attending their appointments should wear loose clothing to provide vaccinators easy access to the arm, and flat shoes.
Please ask someone, wherever possible, to drive you to and from the site. This will allow you to receive your jab and return to your day as quickly as possible, and will mean more people can be vaccinated at the centre.
For more information on the COVID-19 vaccine rollout, visit NHS Kernow's dedicated COVID-19 vaccine page.
Read More:
1,000 people a day to get Covid jabs at Cornwall's new mass vaccination centre
Take a look inside the second mass vaccination centre for Cornwall
Coronavirus: Second mass vaccination centre to open in Cornwall