THE parents of children aged between 12 and 15 in Darlington are being urged to book an appointment for a Covid vaccination this half term.

All youngsters between 12 and 15 are now eligible for the jabs at national vaccination centres.

It means eligible children can have a vaccination at Darlington Arena by booking an appointment on the NHS website or by phoning 119. Walk-ins are not available to meet NHS consent requirements.

Read more: Covid: Cases in Darlington among highest in North East

Penny Spring, Darlington's director of Public Health, said: “It’s fantastic news that children can now get their Covid jabs locally at the Darlington Arena Vaccination Centre, making it easier to have their jabs at a time that suits them best.

"By booking an appointment at the arena this week, you can ensure that your child has had their vaccination ahead of returning to school for the autumn/winter term and has taken the opportunity to protect themselves, their friends and their families against Covid.”

Appointments must be booked for eligible children to meet the NHS consent requirements; they cannot attend any walk-in clinics at the arena to have their vaccinations.

To book an appointment at the Darlington Arena Vaccination Centre, visit the NHS online booking service at https://bit.ly/BookVaxN or phone 119.

Appointments at the Darlington Arena Vaccination Centre will still be available to book beyond the half-term break.

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