More than half of eligible Borderers have received their first vaccine

Applauding the success, chief executive of NHS Borders Ralph Roberts said: “It is extraordinary to think that, within the space of less than four months, we have achieved this highly encouraging milestone.

“The coordination behind the scenes has been an immense undertaking and I am extremely grateful to everyone involved for the efforts that have been made, sometimes in the most trying of circumstances.”

Mr Roberts thanked all involved in the roll-out, as well as all those who accepted their vaccination when it was offered, and asked all those yet to be called to remain patient.

He added: “There are literally hundreds of people involved in the programme, not just from NHS Borders but across care settings and our partner organisations including SBC, Live Borders and military colleagues.

"I would like thank everyone for the part they are playing; including thanks to our colleagues in pharmacy and in primary care settings. Local GPs and their teams have been instrumental in the roll out of the vaccine to those most in need and their knowledge and expertise has been crucial to the running of the programme.

“Thanks also to everyone who has rolled up their sleeve to receive the vaccination when it has been offered to you.

"To those of you who have yet to be called, please remain patient. We are continuing to deliver the programme as vaccine supply allows and in line with the priority groups identified by the Joint Committee for Vaccination and Immunisation.

“If you are offered a vaccine please take it. If you have received your first or both doses of the vaccine please remember that it is extremely important to continue to follow FACTS and the Scottish Government guidance to protect yourself and others from the virus.

"This is really important if we are to keep each other safe and allow time for the vaccination programme to complete over the coming months.”