Following the news that the Pfizer coronavirus vaccine has been authorised for use in the UK, Bridport Medical Centre wants to clear up some confusion on what this means for the area.

It was announced today (Wednesday) that the UK was the first country in the world to judge the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine safe for use, with reports that people could start getting vaccinations next week.

However, it's unlikely medical centres and GP surgeries in west Dorset will get doses of this vaccine but they continue to plan how the vaccinations will be rolled out in the area.

A spokesman for Bridport Medical Centre said: "The good news is that the Pfizer vaccination has indeed been authorised for use. However, you will be aware that this vaccine needs to be stored and transported extremely carefully.

"The decision was made by NHS England to issue this stock to our hospitals first, as they are more able to safely manage its use.

"We have been advised we will most likely be receiving the Oxford vaccine when it is authorised - much easier to use in GP surgeries - and will be given 10 days' notice to commence vaccinating. At least we hope we will get notice.

"We are working with our primary care, CCG (Care Commissioning Group) and PCN (Primary Care Network) colleagues to plan how the programme of vaccinations will work in west Dorset; believe me, it's an extremely complex project to plan but we will get it done with your support.

"Please do not call to ask about the Covid vaccine. We will update when we have agreed plans."

You can keep up-to-date with Bridport Medical Centre on it's Facebook page or on its website