Gail Bewick, 56, a Ward Manager at Blackpool Victoria Hospital was one of the first members of NHS staff classed as “vulnerable’’ to get the new Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine and is now hoping that having the vaccination will enable her to stay at work and not have to shield anymore.

She said: "When I knew I could get the vaccine I jumped at the chance. I really do see the vaccination as a lifeline and I am so glad to have been one of the first to have it so I can get back to doing my job."