Phillip Leech, 98, gets Warrington’s first Covid-19 vaccine

The former GP from Walton made history after receiving the jab at Orford Jubilee Hub this evening, Tuesday.

Everyone in the room broke out in applause once the injection process was complete, and when asked about it, Phillip described it as painless and similar to any other injection.

Supported by his family, including GP daughter Dr Rebecca Leech, he will return to the hub in in 21 days for a booster jab to allow the vaccine to build up immunity.

There was never any doubt in Phillip’s mind about getting the vaccine, and he is encouraging everyone to follow his lead.

“I think everyone should be getting the vaccine – the more people the better so we can build up a greater overall immunity,” he said.

“I would encourage everyone to get it. An awful lot of effort has gone into making it and making sure it is safe.

“You have to trust the scientists.”

We are pleased to announce the rollout of the #COVID19 vaccination programme in #Warrington has begun. Former GP Dr Leech, age 98, was the first patient to receive his vaccine earlier this evening @warringtonBC @WHHNHS @C_MPartnership @NHSNW pic.twitter.com/7d7e9OXxGB

— NHS Warrington Clinical Commissioning Group (@WarringtonCCG) December 15, 2020

In the near future, he is looking forward to spending more time with his family and visiting the pub for lunch.

The vaccine was administered by Dr Laura Mount, GP at Folly Lane Medical Centre and also a clinical director of the Central and West Warrington Primary Care Network.

She said: “It is a huge relief to know that we are starting to protect our patients from a condition that has caused such devastation and distress.

“Our primary care network is honoured to receive the first vaccines and to be able to deliver this service.”