People aged 18 and over in Pendle are being urged to get vaccinated as cases of the Indian variant of Covid-19 increase.

Leader of Pendle Council, Councillor Nadeem Ahmed, said surge vaccination centres had been opened to give people their first dose of the Pfizer vaccine to help stop the spread of the virus.

Speaking last week, he said: "As cases continue to rise in Pendle and the infection rate increases, it’s vital that people come and get vaccinated to protect themselves and keep Pendle safe."

Details about vaccination centres in Pendle are on Pendle Council’s website but people are being urged to attend drop-in clinics to get their jab.

Mobile units are open daily from 8am – 8pm at Morrisons Car Park, Pendle Street, Nelson, until Friday 11 June and at TK Maxx North Valley Road, Colne until Sunday 13 June.

Cllr Ahmed, who has had Covid-19 himself, said: "If you are unsure whether you are eligible, pop down and have a chat with the team.

“We are keen to get as many people vaccinated as possible, so please roll up.

“I had my vaccination this week. It’s quick and easy and offers the protection we need to fight this virus.”

Once people have had their first Pfizer dose, they can book their second vaccination online via nhs.uk/covidvaccine or by ringing the NHS on 119.

Cllr Ahmed continued: "It takes about 24 - 48 hours for details of your first vaccine to upload to the database.

“The closer you get to your second dose being due, the more availability opens up."