Mass vaccination centre boost

Ashford’s MP has welcomed Kent’s first mass vaccination centre as a big step towards fighting Covid-19 in the borough.

The new hub - which opened in Folkestone’s former Debenhams on Tuesday - will be operating seven days a week.

Ashford borough residents within driving distance will also be able to use the vaccine centre, according to Damian Green MP.

He said: “People in Ashford could benefit massively from the centre.

“While it’s in Folkestone, people from Ashford will be within the catchment area.

“They’re inviting people within 45 minutes’ drive to go there, so that will certainly include part of our area.

“It will greatly increase throughput, and will see a lot of people getting vaccinated quickly.”

Mr Green also highlighted the growing supply of the Oxford AstraZeneca vaccine in the borough. He said there was now a sufficient amount for a largescale vaccination programme in Tenterden, and that Ivy Court Surgery was carrying out jabs at a rapid pace.

However, to make the GPs more efficient in their efforts, he reminded people: “Please don’t phone your GP surgery, just look on their website if you need any information or help.

“If everyone phones, the GPs won’t be able to get on with their jobs.”