Biddulph doctors have assured local residents that "nobody will be left behind" as they move forward with their vaccination rollout.

The surgery is now prioritising over 55s for the vaccine, as well as those with pre-existing conditions, and says people who fall into these categories will soon be contacted to receive the vaccine.

The surgery is now also beginning to offer second doses of the vaccine, and those who receive them are encouraged to do so at the same vaccination centre as their first jab, to ensure they get the same vaccine for both doses.

The surgery said in an update today: "We continue to work hard to vaccinate our patients in line with the priority groups defined in the JCVI guidance.

"We are currently prioritising those with an at-risk condition and those aged 55 or over. Those who fall into these groups will be contacted by their GP shortly.

"We are now starting to offer routine second doses which will be given within 12 weeks of the first dose in line with guidance. To ensure patients receive the same vaccine, they are being encouraged to return to the same vaccination site for their second dose.

"Patients will be contacted by their GP approximately a week before their second dose is due, there is no need to contact us and doing so could prevent a patient who needs our help from getting through.

"Please be assured that nobody will be left behind, all patients will be invited for their second dose and vaccinated within 12 weeks."