A WARRINGTON GP who was hailed as a ‘jab hero’ by the Prime Minister says she is ‘shocked but proud’ of the recognition.

Speaking during a press conference earlier this week, which was held as Covid cases hit a record daily high, Boris Johnson celebrated Dr Laura Mount of Folly Lane Medical Centre.

The GP, who administered the first Covid vaccination in Warrington to Phillip Leech last December, was namedropped as part of a team that is ‘keeping going through Christmas and beyond’.

The PM said: “Jab heroes like Dr Laura Mount, and the team at Central and West Warrington primary care network, who have been organising pop up clinics for the homeless.”

Dr Mount says the credit should go to the whole team for their tireless efforts throughout the pandemic.

“The mention by the Prime Minister was a shock,” she said.

“I am extremely proud of the tireless work of the Central and West Warrington Primary Care Network team and all of our volunteers, who continue to go above and beyond to deliver the Covid-19 vaccination programme and protect our communities.

Dr Laura Mount administered the first Covid vaccination in Warrington to Phillip Leech last December

Dr Laura Mount administered the first Covid vaccination in Warrington to Phillip Leech last December

“The Covid-19 vaccine is the best way of protecting yourself and your loved ones from serious illness.

“Please do not put off booking your vaccine – book your vaccine as soon as you get your invitation from the NHS and protect yourself and those around you as we head towards Christmas.”

Dr Andrew Davies, chief clinical officer of NHS Warrington Clinical Commissioning Group, spoke of his pride in the efforts of all vaccination staff.

He added: “The Covid-19 vaccination programme is a great example of what can be achieved by working in partnership across the community.

“We are extremely proud of how our local teams across Warrington have risen to the challenge and of what they have achieved since the start of the pandemic.

“I would like to thank Laura and everyone else involved in the vaccination programme, including all the volunteers, health and care providers and wider stakeholders, for the vital they work they have done – and continue to do – to keep people safe.”