A HUGE logistics operation mounted by volunteers helped to deliver a phenomenal 40,000 Covid vaccinations.

As the second anniversary of the first lockdown is marked on Wednesday, Knutsford Rotary is celebrating a remarkable achievement.

A team of marshals ensured that every patient received a warm welcome and was guided through the immunisation process.

More than 160 volunteers took part in the largest community service project the club has ever undertaken.

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Between them, they gave up 2,235 hours to help with the massive roll-out, all within a year.

More than 40,000 Covid vaccinations and 5,000 flu jabs were administered at Knutsford Community Hospital by a dedicated medical team of professionals and volunteers.

The success of the programme saw the vast majority of the town’s over-16s double jabbed and boosted, with many over-50s receiving flu jabs at the same time.

Rick Dallimore, Knutsford Rotary president, said: “We feel honoured to have had the support of such a public-spirited organisation.

“It’s been a pleasure to have offered a friendly and helpful service to all patients, particularly those who were apprehensive about vaccinations.

“It’s certainly the biggest public service project Knutsford Rotary has ever undertaken.

“Our motto of ‘Service above Self’ applies not only to the Rotarians who took part, but to all those who gave up their time to help.

“A massive thank you and well done to you all.

“They came in droves from Knutsford Hosts, We are Knutsford, Catenians, Lions, Rotarians, friends and relatives and even some who just called to offer help.

“All pitched in for the 100 days the clinic was in operation.”

Even bad weather failed to dampen spirits as many volunteers offered to do extra hours when their shift finished.

The team erected signs, directed cars to the right places and controlled the flow of patients into the hospital, ensuring everyone had hand gel and wore masks.

An online programme managed the recruitment of volunteers to provide teams of four per shift.

“The response was incredible,” said Rick.

“We would like to pay tribute to the army of more than 160 volunteers, without whom the operation would not have been sustainable.

“A massive thank you and well done to you all.”