Those aged 16 and 17 living in Richmond upon Thames are now able to get their first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine at the mass vaccination clinic at the Harlequins Rugby Stadium over in Twickenham.

Since the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) issued new advice that all 16-and 17-year-olds should receive the Pfizer vaccine a few weeks ago, GPs around the borough have been inviting their younger patients in for their jabs.

But this week, until Sunday 22 August between 8.45am – 7pm, younger people can walk into the Stoop, with no appointment, to have their first jab. They must bring proof of age.

Cllr Piers Allen, Chair of the Adult Social Services, Health and Housing Services Committee and Chair of the Health and Wellbeing Board, said: "The local COVID-19 vaccination programme has already been really successful, with over 122,659 first and second doses given to people living in Richmond upon Thames.

"We are really pleased to be able to open up vaccinations to 16- and 17-year-olds and to protect even more people against coronavirus so that we can get back to doing the things we love as quickly as possible.

"I would encourage anyone who is 16 or 17 to come forward for their vaccination as soon as they can. I know the team at Harlequins, Stoop site will offer a warm welcome and be happy to answer any questions young people may have."

Parents and carers who have any questions about the vaccine roll out for 16-17 year olds can also attend one of the virtual Q and As being run by Richmond council the next few weeks.

Answering questions will be leading experts in the borough, including:

Dr Patrick Gibson, GP Lead for Richmond upon Thames on the NHS South West London CCG.

Representative from Public Health at Richmond Council.

Parents can register for the events on:

26 August from 6.30 to 8pm