Biddulph Doctors have said they are "immensely proud" after over 7,000 patients were vaccinated in Biddulph and Leek combined.

The surgery posted an update today (Tuesday) on how the vaccination process is going in Biddulph, and say the number of vaccines they have been able to deliver so far has been a "huge achievement".

As part of Leek and Biddulph Primary Care Network, Biddulph Doctors have so far been focusing on residents in care homes, care home staff, all those 80 years of age and over, frontline health and social care workers and all patients aged 75 years of age and over.

However, they have now delivered enough vaccines to move on to focusing on patients who are aged 70 years and over and clinically extremely vulnerable patients.

A spokesperson thanked the local community for their support during the rollout of the vaccine so far.

They said: "From our Leek and Biddulph sites we are pleased to say that we have currently vaccinated over 7,000 patients. This is a huge achievement and we are immensely proud.

"We would like to take this opportunity to thank all our staff and PCN staff who have worked tirelessly and given up their weekends to ensure the vaccine clinics ran smoothly. A big thank you to Biddulph Town Hall and all their staff without whom we would not have been able to run the clinics in Biddulph.

"We would also like to thank all our volunteers who have helped to direct patients both inside and outside the Town Hall and endured the cold weather. We would also like to thank Hollinshead coaches for providing free transport for patients, and to Staffordshire Moorlands District Council for providing free parking on Wharf Road Carpark during our vaccination clinics.

"A big thank you also to the local residents and shopkeepers for their understanding during these busy periods and to all our patients for your kind comments which have helped us get through this and for the very kind donations of cakes and biscuits."

They added: "This is a great example of healthcare and community coming together.

"We will continue to roll out the vaccine in order of the priority groups so please don't contact the surgery we will contact you.

"If you have an appointment booked in one of our clinics please remember to turn up on time and alone if possible, and please adhere to the social distancing rules."