MORE than half of people in Colchester have now received two doses of a coronavirus vaccine - and now everyone 18 or over can book theirs in the “final push” of the rollout.

NHS data shows 83,587 residents had received both jabs by June 13 - 53 per cent of those aged 16 and over, based on the latest population estimates from the Office for National Statistics.

Of those to have received both jabs, 78,130 were aged 30 and over - 66 per cent of the age group.

It means 5,457 people aged between 16 to 29 have received both doses.

The data also revealed variation in coverage for residents who have been given at least one jab.

Across Colchester 74 per cent of those ages 16 and above have received at least one dose.

The area with the highest coverage is Abbey Field, with 93.7 per cent of people having had one jab.

This was followed by Marks Tey and Wakes Colnes which stood at 89.3 per cent, then Prettygate and Westlands at 86.4 per cent.

The areas with the lowest coverage were Greenstead, standing at 40.2 per cent, Wivenhoe and University, at 50.3 per cent, and New Town and Hythe at 56.4 per cent.

Nick Hulme, chief executive of the East Suffolk and North Essex Foundation Trust, which runs Colchester Hospital, is urging residents to get vaccinated.

He said: “I know how disappointed and worried many people will be with the extension of restrictions for another four weeks.

“But numbers are going up locally and we need to be cautious.

“Please get vaccinated when called.”

During the weekend people aged 40 and above in north Essex are able to take up walk-in Covid jab appointments at Colchester’s Jobserve Community Stadium and Clacton Hospital.

On Sunday there is availability for AstarZeneca at the Jobserve Community Stadium, and the jab is available at Clacton Hospital on Saturday and Sunday.

On Saturday the Pfizer vaccine is also available without an appointment from the vaccination bus at Sainsbury’s in Stanway.

Everyone aged 18 and above is now able to book a Covid-19 vaccine in the NHS’ “final push” of the rollout.

A spokesman for North East Essex Clinical Commissioning Group said: “If you’re aged 18 or over, then you’re eligible to receive the vaccine.

“It’s quick and simple to book, and the vaccines are safe and effective.

“Visit the National Booking Service or call 119 for an appointment at a vaccination centre. “Alternatively, you can wait to be contacted by your GP practice for an appointment at a local GP practice.”

If you live in Essex and need help to book an appointment you can ring 0344 2573 961.