MADAM - I have just returned from having my Covid-19 vaccine.

At 72 I was awaiting to be contacted by my doctor but understood it could be a few more weeks before I got a letter.

Last night my attention was drawn to an NHS booking site and contacts on Facebook assured me that I could book my own free appointment.

I was a little disbelieving but I clicked on the link and went through the booking process. I ignored the sentence that said I should wait for a letter and inserted my NHS number as requested and I was pleasantly surprised to be offered an appointment at 4.50pm today, less than 20 hours after making the appointment.

I received a confirmation of the appointment on my mobile but even as I sat in the carpark I was a little sceptical that

it would happen. Well it did and it was a painless and easy process.

All the staff and volunteers at the Artrix were so friendly and helpful I was kept safely on the move and in and out within 10 minutes. I was given the AstraZeneca vaccine so did not have to sit for 15 minutes in case of allergic reaction. It was suggested that I sit in my car for 10 minutes before driving off, which I did although I was absolutely fine.

Just want to say a big thank you to all those concerned and I am relieved to have had the jab. Although 72 and prone to chest infections I am not classed as vulnerable but I have taken it upon myself to shield myself as much as possible.

If you are over 70 and still waiting for a jab I would advise you go onto the NHS.UK website and arrange your own appointment.

 Annette Hinton