Solent NHS Trust is recognising the work of colleagues, volunteers and system partners in successfully creating and mobilising four large-scale vaccination centres across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

Solent’s Riverside Centre vaccination centre in Newport opened its doors to residents on February 1.

Ann Dyer, 58, from Seaview, received her first vaccination at the Riverside Centre alongside her daughter, Lindsay Rivers, 36.

Ann is a carer for relatives and a childminder while Lindsay is a health care worker.

Lindsay said: “I’m glad I’ve had it, as you just need to eliminate what’s going around, you need to be safe. For me personally, having the vaccine is the right thing to do.

“I would like to be able to take my children out to fun places and take them on holiday. I’ve found the process amazing. It’s really quick, everyone’s friendly and helpful.”

Ann added: “I’m really pleased I’ve been vaccinated. I would say to people just do it, we’ve all got to do it, we’ve all got a responsibility to have it done it. Once the family’s all vaccinated it will give us some more freedom. I’m hoping we can go on our holiday to Switzerland once we’re out of this. I think the setup at the Riverside Centre is brilliant, I felt safe, with really supportive staff.”

Vaccinations are being offered to people in line with recommendations from the independent JCVI.

People need an appointment to get their vaccine – most people will be invited by letter and then have the opportunity either call 119 or go onto the national booking system for an appointment slot.

Appointments are released regularly and usually available at short notice, with additional slots released every couple of days.