AN 83-YEAR-OLD who has received the coronavirus vaccine is urging people from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) communities to get the jab.

Warrington Ethnic Communities Association (WECA) chairman Dr Hasan Kazi, from Woolston, received his first dose at the Halliwell Jones Stadium on Sunday.

And he issued a plea as the town continues to battle against Covid-19.

Dr Kazi said: “I feel very fortunate and happy to have received the Covid vaccine due to my age and underlying medical conditions.

“Hopefully, the vaccine will safeguard myself and help to stop the spread of coronavirus.

“I would urge everyone, especially the members of the BAME community who are at higher risk of contacting the virus, to take the vaccine if they are invited.”

WECA secretary Mo Hussain, from Great Sankey, added: “It is really encouraging to see Dr Hasan Kazi, chairman of WECA, and Mrs Kazi taking the vaccine.

“We are working very closely with local government agencies and GPs to make sure clear messages are given in order to build confidence for everyone to take up the vaccine when it’s fully rolled out.”

Two days later, James White, 82, and Bill Vernon, 84, became the first patients to receive the Covid-19 vaccine at Warrington Hospital’s vaccination hub which opened on Tuesday.

The landmark moment was hailed by Warrington South MP Andy Carter.

He said: “Great to see the Covid-19 vaccination programme got under way today at Warrington Hospital with a full roll out to NHS staff, care home staff and patients in the priority groups at the hospital’s outpatients department.

“Warrington Hospital is one of a number of hubs in Cheshire and Merseyside.

“The vaccination programme at the hospital follows a launch in the community last week by GPs and community nurses.

“There is no need to contact the hospital about an appointment to be vaccinated.

"Anyone in priority groups will receive an invitation to book in for the vaccine via a communication from either their GP or other NHS hub."