‘Don’t blame Boris if this doesn’t work’ - Peterborough council leader urges people to be disciplined ahead of Covid lockdown easing

Speaking the day after Boris Johnson announced his plans to end restrictions across England, Cllr Holdich said: “The danger of the route map is that we all relax. Don’t blame Boris if this doesn’t work because it’s up to us to remain disciplined and make sure it does work.

“It’s up to us to stick to those rules and by June 23, hooray, we’ll be free to do what we want - go on holiday or whatever.

“Let’s continue together to work together to crack this virus - still wash your hands, still keep safe, still wear your mask.”

Cllr Holdich’s message came as more councillors from across Peterborough and Cambridgeshire joined residents in ‘taking a jab’ against Covid-19.

As the next phase of the rollout looks to get underway, inviting those between the ages 65 to 69 and the clinically vulnerable for their jab, councillors are among those to have received their first vaccine.

Cllr Peter Hiller, cabinet member for strategic planning and commercial strategy and investments at Peterborough City Council, received his first vaccination earlier this month at the Glinton Surgery in Peterborough.

Cllr Hiller said: “I was amazed how easy the whole process was.

“No waiting, no delays, just straight in and, after a brief Q&A, the absolutely painless process was completed. I’ve had no after-effects whatsoever and am just so relieved to get my first vaccination from the very dedicated and hard-working NHS folk. Thank you so much.”

Another member of Peterborough City Council to receive their first dose of the Covid-19 vaccine was Cllr Lynne Ayres, cabinet member for children’s services, education, skills and the university, who received the AstraZeneca vaccine at Stanground Surgery earlier this month.

She said: “The vaccination process itself was painless and I was really impressed with the social distancing process at the site and the level of care given by staff administering the vaccine. I would encourage everyone who is eligible to go ahead and make the trip.”

Also receiving his first vaccine was Cllr Gul Nawaz, the Mayor of Peterborough.

He said: “This vaccine is so important, it will help us to protect ourselves, our loved ones and our communities and, in time, help us to return to a more normal way of life.

“So please say ‘yes’ when you are offered it. While you are waiting for your jab, or waiting for your second dose, please continue to follow the precautions.”

Members of Cambridgeshire County Council were also among those receiving their first dose of the vaccine.

Cllr Anne Hay, who received her vaccine at Doddington Hospital, said: “I was happy to be called to attend Doddington for my Covid-19 vaccination and, although I have a phobia of needles, I found it a relatively painless procedure.

“I would urge everyone to be vaccinated when their time comes as that is the only way we will beat this pandemic.

“I would also like to pass on my congratulations and thanks to all those involved in providing such a professional service. From the healthcare professionals to the volunteers they are doing a sterling job.”

Cllr Lorna Dupré also attended Doddington Hospital to receive her first dose of the vaccine.

Cllr Dupré said: “The staff and volunteers at Doddington Hospital were extremely well organised and the whole process was really friendly and efficient - the NHS has been absolutely incredible in managing this enormous exercise. I’m told they vaccinated a thousand people at Doddington that day.

“I was very excited to get my first vaccination and I’m looking forward to the second one in 12 weeks’ time.

“I’m confident the vaccine is safe and I know it’s a vital part of the battle against the virus and an eventual return to a more normal life.”

And Cllr David Connor was thrilled to accept his invitation to be vaccinated earlier this month.

He said: “I was more than happy to take up the offer of a vaccination when I was invited. The process was super - extremely easy and the staff were excellent.

“I would encourage others to take the opportunity to receive the Covid-19 vaccine when their time comes.”