A CALL that went out for more volunteers to help out at Thurrock's two Covid-19 vacination centres has proved successful with a significant number of local people coming forward.

The two centres at Chadwell and Stifford Clays medical centres are open from 8am to 8pm, seven days a week and they are meeting a big demand for vaccinations from across the borough.

Thurrock NHS Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) asked if there were volunteers who could spare some time to help at the centres, with the CCG's Lynne Hilkene saying: "As a volunteer, this is an exciting opportunity for you to play your part in supporting your local community and helping to save lives."

Her words obviously struck a chord as today a CCG spokesperson said: "We have had a significant number of volunteers come forward which is really heartening. And those who have already started say it has been very rewarding and it has already had a positive impact on their lives."

Meanwhile, after a shaky start during which there was social media criticism of the facility at Chadwell, recent days have seen bouquets replacing brickbats.

The CCG has also refuted some social media comments that the two centres have had problems with a supply of vaccine meaning some local people who were scheduled for an appointment missed out, saying: "We can confirm no appointments have been cancelled and all going ahead as planned."