North East Derbyshire District Council has been praised by health chiefs for helping to deliver the Covid-19 vaccination programme in NE Derbyshire.
In one day alone, over 1,000 people were vaccinated at Sharley Park Leisure Centre, Clay Cross.
It means the total number of residents to receive a jab at the council-run leisure facility, now stands at more than 20,000.
Kate Chilton, General Manager of the NHS’ South Hardwick Primary Care Network, said: “Just a huge thankyou to the whole team to date.
“On 13 March we had our biggest day, vaccinating over 1,000 patients. The teams covering the shifts were on point and ensured the day ran smoothly. Please send our thanks to all involved.
“Sharley Park and your extended workforce are considered as part of our team and really do step up on a daily basis, we couldn’t do this without you all.”
Back in January, Sharley Park Leisure Centre was one of only two sites in the county to be converted from a public building to carry out vaccinations.
Prior to the vaccination site opening, over 25 leisure centre staff from North East Derbyshire District Council took part in a test vaccination trial setting at Bakewell, Derbyshire, which was the only known trial in the country aimed at understanding the logistics of mass testing and how to safely allow a flow of people in the sites when up and running.
Lee Hickin, Director of Corporate Resources and Head of Paid Service at North East Derbyshire District Council, said: “We are delighted we have been able to help with the vaccination programme in North East Derbyshire.
“By working with NHS partners, we have been able to convert our leisure centre into a safe venue for residents to go, to have this vitally important vaccine and provide the staff needed to ensure the process runs smoothly.”