PEOPLE aged over 18 in Dorset are being reminded that they are now eligible for their Covid-19 vaccination and are being urged to book an appointment to get their first jab.

Recorded cases of coronavirus have risen quickly in recent weeks across the county and at the moment case rates are highest amongst younger, largely unvaccinated age groups.

Local GP, Dr Andy Rutland, said “People are desperate to return to normal life - for example going to concerts, events or clubs - at the earliest opportunity and we are reminding anyone aged 18 and over not to wait until they are invited, but to get on and book their jab as soon as they can.

"Cases across Dorset are definitely on the rise and we know that vaccination offers protection against serious illness and hospitalisation as well as reducing risk to those close to you.

“We are delighted that there is such a demand for vaccinations both nationally and locally and the fact that we have delivered over 900,000 doses in Dorset shows that the vast majority of people are keen to get protected. We know however that there are still some people that – for whatever reason - haven’t made up their mind yet and haven’t booked an appointment."