Large Covid-19 vaccination centre opens in Ipswich
The site is Suffolk's first large-scale vaccination centre
Last updated 27th Jan 2021
The large-scale vaccination centre at Gainsborough Sports Centre got off to a smooth start as it welcomes its first members of the public today, 26th January.
It's one of 30 new centres opening nationally and, according to the NHS, it will be used to vaccinate thousands of people each week.
It offers priority groups, who've received a letter, an additional option on top of hospital hubs and GP-led vaccination centres.
Sheila, who's 83, was the first person to get her vaccine at the centre on Tuesday morning.
83-year-old Peter Pearson was among the first people toattend the centre for a jab, he was happy with his visit: "It was a great experience and hopefully it will be successful to try and curb this terrible pandemic."
Meanwhile Mike Williams, who's 78, said: "It was totally routine. You were left in no doubt as to what they wanted. You went straight through, there were no complications."
The atmosphere from members of the public, staff and volunteers was positive throughout the day, which was branded a success.
Pam Sabine, operational director for the coronavirus vaccination programme in Suffolk and North East Essex, said: "There is quite a buzz in there. We've got a lot of patients coming through today, we've seen some staff to start with, it's all running very smoothly.
"Everyone seems to be very happy, and are pleased to receive their vaccine.
"The marshals have been fantastic, they're the people who keep everything moving a long through the system. And all the staff in there are very keen and enthusiastic to deliver the vaccine to people."
Dr Ed Garratt, Executive Lead for the Suffolk and North East Essex Integrated Care System, said: "Together with our existing primary care hubs, and the community pharmacies that have recently come on board, the Gainsborough vaccination centre will enable us to accelerate the rate at which we are able to protect our local population from the virus."
The NHS is reminding people not to contact them seeking a vaccine jab, as people will be contacted when it is their turn.