A Covid-19 vaccination centre run by the independent pharmacy support group Avicenna has opened at a pharmacy in Swindon.

One of the group’s pharmacies was refitted in three days to include vaccination pods, a reception and waiting areas, and it is hoped that the centre will to be able to vaccinate 800 patients per week, with  160 vaccinations booked in so far.

The Avicenna team across the south of the country has rallied to support the initiative and local volunteers have also been recruited as vaccinators and marshals to support the rollout.

“Pharmacies are within walking distance of many people’s homes, and I know that some of our local residents, particularly those who are less mobile, will appreciate having a choice of a more local venue for their vaccine,” said Angela Mavalla, lead pharmacist at Avicenna Pharmacy. “I’d urge everyone who is invited to have the vaccine to take up the offer, and I really look forward to seeing many familiar faces come through our doors to receive their vaccine.”