A start date for Covid-19 vaccinations to take place has been confirmed for Biddulph.

Biddulph Town Council confirmed today that vaccinations will begin from this Friday (15th January) in Biddulph Town Hall.

The council says the first people to be vaccinated in the town will be those aged over 80 and front-line healthcare workers.

The council has provided a range of advice for residents on how they can help the vaccination process to run smoothly.

Residents who are waiting for the vaccine were asked to "be patient and kind".

A council spokesperson said: "Your surgery will contact you directly to arrange your appointment. Please be patient and kind, the staff are working so hard to support our community with the rollout.

"There is no parking at the Town Hall. There is a loading bay at the front which can be used for dropping off and some spaces outside the Conservative Club. We kindly ask that you do not park in these spaces unless you are coming into the Town Hall for the vaccine. Please be considerate."

Parking and transport can be found at the following:

- Parking at Sainsbury's (Free)

- Wharf Road Car Park (Free on Friday 15th and Saturday 16th - fees apply on other days)

- Biddulph Taxis (01782 523366)

- Dave Parker Taxis (07901 503655)

- Biddulph Nub News reported previously how Hollinshead Coaches are also very kindly running a service for those struggling with transport. Call them on 01782 512209 or call the town council on 01782 297845.

The council spokesperson continued: "After you have received your vaccine you will exit the Town Hall via the hall doors up the ramp to John Street.

"When attending your appointment please arrive on time and not before. We cannot let anyone in the building before their appointment due to social distancing and we would hate to see people have a long wait in the cold.

"We understand that you may be anxious about finding somewhere to park so want to get here sooner, but if you do arrive early wait in your car where you will be warm.

"We recommend you wrap up but remember you will need to expose an arm so maybe wear a cardigan as opposed to an over your head jumper."

They added: "Finally, we are so happy to be hosting the COVID 19 Vaccine and can't wait to see you!"

The vaccine news has been welcomed by local residents, with one commenting: "Brilliant news for locals."

Another added: "Thanks for the info and thank you Biddulph Doctors."

While a third said: "Well done to all at long last, can't wait!"

It was revealed yesterday that almost 2.5 million people around the country have received the vaccine so far.

The Government is aiming to vaccinate around 2 million people every week by the end of January, and a total of around 13 million by mid-February, which would include everyone in the highest priority groups.