King in the North's winter Covid warning as vaccine rollout continues

Manchester’s version of the King in the North is returning to the city to help boost support for this winter’s vaccination programme.

Earlier this month we saw Game of Thrones’ Jon Snow, or more accurately a lookalike, giving an impassioned speech to the city calling for people to protect themselves.

As winter is well and truly coming ‘Jon’ - actor James Martin - will return to the vaccination centre inside the Rates Hall in St. Peter’s Square to yet again drum up support.

Speaking last week, after receiving his own first dose of the Covid-19 vaccine, he said: “I wanted to have the vaccine, so this was the perfect time and a case of life imitating art! It was quick and easy and absolutely nothing to worry about.”

On Thursday (October 28) Jon will be outside the Town Hall Extension Rates Hall from 3pm.

Public health bosses say it's a chance for people to protect themselves against Covid, and to nab a selfie with the King in the North.

David Regan, Manchester’s Director of Public Health said: “The best armour you can use to protect yourself this winter is the Covid vaccine. It’s a quick and easy way to ensure your own safety as well as that of your friends and family.

“This winter will be tough, given the extra coughs, colds and flu going around, but through the vaccination programme we will give ourselves the best chance of a safe festive period.”

Councillor Joanna Midgley, Executive Member for Health and Care, said: “Christmas last year was, for many, a time spent apart from friends and family due to the winter lockdown. We want to do everything we can to avoid that this time round which is why I’d urge anyone to come and get vaccinated.”