BLACKBURN with Darwen Council have launched a new campaign to encourage people have their coronavirus vaccinations featuring residents who have already been jabbed.

They share their reasons for getting immunised from having suffered from Covid-19 to losing someone close to them from the infection.

Jodie Beck, a safeguarding apprentice at Blackburn with Darwen Council, said: “I got the vaccine so I can protect the vulnerable adults around me.”

After testing positive for Covid-19 last autumn, project manager for social integration Mohamed Sidat got vaccinated to protect his friends, family and the vulnerable.

Billy Briggs, a grave digger based at Pleasington Crematorium, said he got vaccinated to protect everyone he comes into contact with.

Sophiya Patel, a registered homecare manager who has had her first jab, said: “I got vaccinated because I have lost someone close to me to Covid-19.”

Professor Dominic Harrison, the council's director of public health said: “Blackburn with Darwen has been hit hard with the number of cases of Covid-19.

"Vaccinations will help to control this virus and its variants, so we are strongly urging people of all ages and backgrounds to have their vaccinations as soon as they are invited to.

“It’s also crucial people ensure they get their second jab for maximum effect and to play their part in helping our borough turn the corner.”

Cllr Mohammed Khan, leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council, said: “Vaccination is the best route out of this crisis."

The NHS is now offering Covid jabs to 23 and 24 year olds.