Residents living in Hucknall and across the whole of Nottinghamshire have been urged by local health bosses to protect themselves from Covid-19 ahead of the Christmas period.

The booster programme is underway and those who are eligible for the top-up jab are being encouraged to book their appointment as soon as possible.

Those who are eligible for a booster include over 40s, those with a health condition that puts them at serious complications from Covid-19, and health and social care workers.

Amanda Sullivan, Accountable Officer at NHS Nottingham and Nottinghamshire CCG, said: "There are a number of sites across the city and county delivering booster vaccines and I would urge you to go to the NHS website or call 119 to book an appointment at the nearest and most convenient site to you.

"It is more important than ever that we do all we can to protect ourselves and our families this winter. Let's remember this Christmas for the right reasons and make sure we are safe. A booster dose helps give you longer-term protection against getting seriously ill from Covid-19 and it really is the best protection over the winter period."

In Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, latest data shows that 82 per cent of over 18s have been double jabbed against the virus and local health bosses are urging those who have not yet taken up the offer of a first or second dose to have the jab before Christmas.

Lucy Hubber, Director of Public Health in Nottingham, said: "We're seeing an increase in Covid-19 cases in the city. While our overall rate remains lower than in other parts of the country, it is still higher than we would like and shows that the virus hasn't gone away.

"The best protection is to get vaccinated, whether this is your first, second or booster jab. We're already seeing lots of people book their boosters online – but I want to be clear that it's not too late to get your first Covid jab. You haven't missed out; you can still book, or you can go along to the Forest Recreation Ground vaccination centre to get your jab.

"All of the vaccination centres have staff who can talk to you more about the jab, so feel free to ask any questions you might have. Please take that first step to stay safe from the virus, especially as we move towards winter.

"Statistics from the ONS this month show that the risk of death involving Covid-19 is 32 times greater in unvaccinated people than in those who had received both doses."

The latest data shows that 189 beds in the county's hospitals were occupied by Covid patients on 16 November, with 12 per cent of these patients being in the most critical condition.

Jonathan Gribbin, Director of Public Health for Nottinghamshire, urged the public to make sure they get tested ahead of Winter to reduce the spread.

He said: "Covid-19 remains a serious health risk and the vaccines provide the very best protection against it. They are safe, effective, and free of charge. There is a dose ready for anyone eligible, including anyone wanting to get their first or second dose.

"Along with Covid-19 and flu vaccination, wearing your face covering in enclosed places, regularly washing your hands and ensuring good ventilation indoors all play a part in protecting each other and reducing the pressures felt by our local NHS and care services.

"It's also essential to get tested even if we have mild symptoms – and isolate if we test positive. Rapid lateral flow tests are still available free of charge and twice weekly testing can help identify the virus and break chains of transmission. So I am urging everyone to help prevent the spread of the virus and get vaccinated to give Nottinghamshire a safe Christmas."

To find out more about vaccinations in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire and book an appointment for a jab, please click here.