A GP is urging everyone who is eligible to get their Covid vaccine to do so as soon as possible.

GP and clinical lead for the Dorset Covid-19 vaccination programme Dr Andy Rutland is encouraging everyone who has not yet had their jab to do so as it is 'by far the best way of protecting yourself'.

More than 1m doses of the vaccine have been given out since the vaccination programme was launched.

Dr Rutland said: "The NHS is working extremely hard in Dorset to deliver the Covid-19 vaccination to local people.

"We thank people for supporting us with this programme and taking up the offer of the life-saving Covid-19 jab.

"Since the launch of the Dorset Covid-19 vaccination programme in December 2020, 1,087,596 doses and rising have been delivered to people across Dorset with figures published on August 16 showing that in the BCP Council area 41,582 people aged between 18 and 29 had received at least one dose of Covid-19 vaccine – more than 70 per cent of those eligible.

"Our ongoing campaign - #OurWayOut - is running to promote both Covid-19 vaccinations and testing.

"It is still important for everyone to accept that Covid-19 is still with us, and cases are still high both in Dorset and across the country.

"Getting both doses of the vaccination is by far the best way of protecting yourself so I would ask anyone who has not yet had their jab to do so, including those who may be wavering when it comes to their second dose."