More than 20,000 vaccinations delivered at Midhurst centre

A spokesperson for Midhurst Rotary Club, which has been helping with vaccinations alongside other groups, said: “As we move into June and five months of vaccinations, a whole host of achievements are being clocked up. These are against a backcloth of county wide statistics. Midhurst has two out of Sussex’s 45 vaccination centres. The county has now delivered 1.7 million vaccinations to one million people.

“At Riverbank Medical Centre, the professional team of doctors, nurses, healthcare assistants, receptionists and managers have been supported by over 100 volunteers. This enlarged team has provided over 20,000 vaccinations not only to the over 50s but also to the 20-somethings.

“To all those involved, it remains very rewarding. Initially older people were relieved to be out and in a tunnel with light at the end. Now we have younger people attending who are equally excited and committed to eliminating Covid-19.

“The team anticipated a change of attitude as the risk/reward balance was perceived as being different. However, it is evident that young and old are united in their desire to develop a community resistance to the disease.

“This is a welcome fillip to the volunteers as they balance their change of circumstances. People are returning to work, schools are back and holidays are available.”

The bridge between the professional team and the volunteers is managed by practice manager Kath Miles and lead volunteer Simon Flint. Together they have marshalled a volunteer team with four different roles.

Mr Flint said: “I have really enjoyed pulling together such a committed and enthusiastic team. We all regret the circumstances but appreciate the opportunity to meet and make new friends.”

The volunteer team has been drawn from the Rotary Club, Inner Wheel, Midhurst Sports Clubs (tennis, cricket and rugby) and the South Harting community.