A YEAR ago Michael Tibbs of Lynchmere made history as the oldest person in the UK to receive the Pfizer Covid vaccination on December 8, 2020 - the first day of the ongoing nationwide vaccination rollout.

The lifelong resident of the village where his father had been the vicar, was applauded after receiving his first jab at Queen Alexandra Hospital in Cosham just after his 99th birthday.

Mr Tibbs served as a Submarine Lieutenant in the Second World War and celebrated his 100th birthday this November with his family including his five great-grandchildren.

Speaking on the first anniversary of the Covid-19 vaccination programme, he encouraged others to take up the offer.

Mr Tibbs (pictured arriving at QA Hospital on December 8, 2020) said: "It’s been a difficult and challenging year for everyone and I feel very privileged to have been the first vaccinated at Queen Alexandra Hospital by their chief nurse, Liz Rix.

"Since then, I’ve had my second dose and had my booster. I would urge everyone to do the same."

Clinical lead for the Hampshire vaccination rollout Dr Matt Nisbet said: "Eligible people will continue to be invited to have their vaccination jabs in order of vulnerability.

"The offer is not time-limited so anyone invited can have one - even if they have declined before and have now changed their mind."