'Do not hesitate' - Carson and Champion urge over-70s to get Covid-19 vaccine

Willie Carson and Bob Champion have joined other leading sporting figures in urging over-70s to receive the coronavirus vaccination as Chester becomes the latest track to offer its services as a vaccination hub.

More than 14 million people in the UK have had at least one dose of a Covid-19 vaccine and ministers have made a final push to meet the government's vaccination target of 15 million people by Monday.

Sir Geoff Hurst, who memorably scored a hat-trick in England's 1966 World Cup final victory, and Olympian Daley Thompson, are among a group of sportspeople encouraging everyone to have the vaccine.

Carson, a five-time champion Flat jockey and four-time Epsom Derby winner, said: "Last month I got one of the best calls I've received this year – the appointment for my first coronavirus vaccination at Cirencester Hospital. I encourage everyone to get it quick – make a nuisance of yourself! The jab will make you safer."

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Former England manager and Crystal Palace boss Roy Hodgson has had his jab, as has Champion, who entered racing folklore when recovering from cancer to win the 1981 Grand National on Aldaniti.

"Last week I was very excited going to my GP surgery to receive my vaccination from the surgery nurse," said Champion. "It's wonderful to have thousands of doctors, nurses and volunteers helping to make us safe and hopefully get us back to some normality in the near future.

"The whole process was extremely well organised and the injection didn’t hurt at all. So please do not hesitate if you are aged 70 and over, and haven't yet received your vaccine. Come forward and make an appointment as soon as you can. Encourage any grandparents, relatives and friends over 70 to book an appointment too. Every jab makes us all a bit safer. It will offer you and those around you crucial protection against this virus."

Tracks including Epsom, Newbury and Newmarket have been used as vaccination hubs and Chester will join the effort from Monday.

Richard Thomas, chief executive of the company that owns and manages the track,said: "We were really keen to ensure our local area could benefit from a mass vaccination centre and are pleased to be able to support the NHS with its essential vaccination programme.

"We plan to offer our facilities seven days a week, apart from racedays, and our staff are proud to have the opportunity to support as volunteers to help deliver the facility."

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