10,000 jabs milestone for Leighton Buzzard's Covid-19 vaccination centre

The vaccination centre at Leighton Buzzard Rugby Club - a jointly run service by all three general practices (Bassett Road Surgery, Leighton Road Surgery and Salisbury House Surgery) - launched on January 14 and has been making excellent progress in protecting residents as it works its way down the priority groups.

In a statement, Stephen King, LB PCN Operations Manager, said: "Today we broke through the milestone and delivered 10,000 vaccinations.

"When we started this journey and did our first vaccination on 14th January, we did not visualise that six weeks later we would have achieved this remarkable target.

"However this has not been achieved by chance. Meticulous planning and co-ordination went into the selection of the site to ensure that we worked in an efficient and safe environment.

"We have been so fortunate to have chosen the rugby club who have welcomed us into their premises, provided all the support that we requested and have also worked as volunteers each day. Praise must also go to the Bedfordshire Clinical Commissioning Group (BCCG) who also saw our vision for the vaccination centre and agree for the club to be used."

He added: "Our biggest thanks go to the patients of Leighton Buzzard who have been magnificent in their support and patience whilst they wait to be called by their practice to come for their vaccination.

"Additionally we have been overwhelmed by the support within the community; from businesses to individuals. You have all been so generous in your praise for the staff and volunteers that keep the vaccination centre going. Your numerous gifts of snack, drinks, biscuits and sweeties have kept us nourished throughout the days."

Mr King also gave thanks to the "great army of volunteers", adding: "They have been the smiling, kind and thoughtful group who have looked after in excess of 10,000 patients as they came for their vaccinations. Thank you. I will be forever grateful to you all.

"Spring is coming, the weather is improving and we are looking forward to delivering the next 10,000 vaccinations in our efforts to protect you all."

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