BOLTON’S vaccine bus is making a return to Essa Academy to carry out second doses over a 10 day period.

Thousands of people could get double-jabbed from July 23 to August 1, as a second vaccination bus will pull up alongside the first to help share the load.

Back in May, the vaccination bus pulled into Essa Academy for a routine stop and ended up staying for the entire month as Bolton battled against the Delta variant of coronavirus.

It will be around eight weeks since the bus vacated the site, which means thousands of people are eligible for their second dose of Pfizer and maximum protection against hospitalisation and becoming seriously unwell from Covid-19.

People who received their first dose from the Quebec Hall site, which was also operating around the same time, are also due their next vaccination.

Some people will receive a direct message from their GP practice to go along but the invitation is open to any Bolton resident who is due their second dose if it has been eight weeks since their first.

Dr Helen Wall, senior responsible officer for the vaccination programme in Bolton, said: “It’s so important that people get their second vaccination as this provides the best protection against becoming seriously ill and needing hospital treatment.

“We have several second dose clinics operating across the borough, so it’s likely that many people have already made arrangements for their next jab. However, the time at Essa was so special due to the excellent partnership working, the volunteers and support from the local community in such difficult circumstances that we just had to go back and give people the opportunity to return to where their vaccination journey began.

“The school were such fantastic hosts, not forgetting the St John Ambulance who helped Bolton GP Federation to give so many life-saving jabs.”

Anyone who hasn’t yet had their first dose of Pfizer can also attend this site.

Michael Smith, chief officer of Bolton GP Federation added: “We’re delighted to be returning to Essa Academy to deliver these vital second dose Pfizer vaccines to the thousands of people who are now due theirs. It’s so important that people get their second doses to ensure they get the best protection - we are hoping that our time at Essa will make it easy and convenient for everyone.

“We have a great team lined up to welcome people and vaccinate them swiftly and safely, with support from the Academy, our local volunteers and those from St John Ambulance. The council’s public health team and the Health Improvement Practitioners from the Bolton NHS Foundation Trust are joining us too, meaning people can get free Covid testing kits and advice alongside health checks during their visit.

“Last time we were there, there was a great atmosphere – people travelled from all over town and our communities came together and rallied round to help us vaccinate 15,000 people. We hope to replicate this and give everyone an enjoyable experience and do their bit to protect themselves and each other.”

The buses will be on site for 10 days from 10am to 4pm each day, including two weekends. As before there is no on-site parking so people are reminded to be respectful of the local community.

If anyone has the NHS App already downloaded then this will make the process a bit quicker for them as a record of their first dose will be included. Otherwise, if people have retained their small record card, then this could also speed up proceedings. Although neither are obligatory.

Anyone requiring a second dose can also contact NHS Bolton CCG for help on: 01204 462125, 462157, 462030, 462028. Phone lines are open Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5.30pm only.