The Helsby & Elton GP Practice are beginning their 2020 flu vaccination drive, and encourage those eligible to book their appointment now.

The Practice said: "The flu vaccination campaign in England will be bigger than ever this year.

"By working together to get as many people vaccinated as possible, we hope to reduce the risk of a devastating flu outbreak during the current Covid-19 pandemic.

"People who were eligible in previous years are again invited to book in for a flu jab by phoning our receptionists on 01928 723676.

"You may have heard that flu vaccinations will be offered this autumn to all people aged 50-64. Information about vaccine availability and immunisation sites is awaited.

"It is expected that this age group will be vaccinated in November, December, and January.

"Get a jab… Avoid flu… Save the NHS."

The clinics, which are by appointment only to ensure social distancing, are as follows:

• People aged 65 years and older (people born before 1 April 1956)

- Saturday 3rd October

- Saturday 24th October and

- Saturday 21st November at Helsby Community Centre.

• People under 65 with long term conditions (heart disease, stroke, COPD, asthma on daily steroid inhaler, immunosuppressed through medication or coeliac disease, obesity, and carers)

- Saturday 7th November at Elton Community Centre.

The Practice is also able to organise home visits for those who are housebound.

In order to reduce the chance of increased coronavirus transmission, there will be a one-way system operating in each session, and some patients may have to wait outside until there is room in the building.

Patients are requested to attend alone, wear a face covering and to park away from the Community Centre and walk if possible.