NHS staff and volunteers have gave out nearly 250,000 Covid-19 vaccines to south west Londoners through the festive period. 

Across a three-week period, from December 13 to January 2, a total of 249,776 vaccines were administered.

These include 221,649 booster vaccines, 14,408 second doses and 13,719 first doses.

Staff across south west London Clinical Commissioning Groups were redeployed to work with men and women from the armed forces to help deliver the roll out of the booster jabs.

Local community leaders also joined forces with the NHS to spread the message and to reach their communities.

Dr Nicola Jones, local GP and GP lead for the south west London vaccination programme said: “Delivering a quarter of a million jabs in such a short time represents an extraordinary team effort, with the NHS, volunteers, military and local communities joining forces.

“We are immensely grateful for all the continuing work to help protect as many residents as possible.

“We know that first and second doses are still vital and we want to ensure no one gets left behind – if it’s your first dose, your second, your booster, just get that jab done.”

Pharmacist Mike, who runs the Pearl Chemist Covid-19 Vaccination Centre in Tooting said: “If you’re thinking about having your vaccine, please don’t hesitate to pop into your local vaccination centre for a chat and say hello.

“If you are unsure about having your vaccine, just ask us. We are happy to answer any questions you may have and there’s no pressure on you!”

The success of jabs comes after the NHS launched the biggest vaccination programme in its history across south west London.

Adults over 30 were able to book their vaccinations from December 13 and anyone over 18 was able to book vaccinations from December 15, 2021.