Housebound Islanders are being urged to contact their GPs as soon as possible if they are eligible for, but have missed out on, a Covid-19 vaccine.

The Isle of Wight Clinical Commissioning Group says it wants to make sure no-one is left behind, as the vaccination programme moves through different age groups.

So far, those aged 56 and above and people who are vulnerable have been invited to receive an injection.

Alison Smith, managing director of NHS Isle of Wight Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “Most of our vulnerable Island residents have been offered their vaccination – and this includes people who are housebound.

“Our vaccination teams in GP practices are working hard to ensure everyone in the priority groups is offered a vaccine appointment so no one is left behind, while still continuing to deliver routine GP practice services.

“For the remaining few people that are housebound and have not had their vaccine, please contact your GP practice to make an appointment as soon as possible.”

Vaccination teams are making house calls to people who are unable to attend a vaccination site, or a doctor's surgery.

However, Islanders are warned the process is slower than for those able to attend places like the Riverside Centre in Newport.

Meanwhile, Age Concern CEO Jo Dare is warning older Islanders not to fall prey to 'unscrupulous' people.

She has warned that in some parts of the mainland, elderly people have had doorstep cold callers who have asked them to pay for a Covid-19 jab.

People who are housebound will be contacted by the NHS and will not be charged for a vaccination.