HEALTH chiefs say nearly half of 16 and 17-year-olds have been vaccinated against coronavirus in Bolton.

Walk-in jab sites across the borough are welcoming teenagers before schools and colleges reopen this September.

And medics say the offer to be vaccinated remains open to all over-16s, as health officials look to persuade as many as possible to get innoculated.

Dr Helen Wall, senior responsible officer for the vaccination programme in Bolton, said: “I must say a big ‘thank you’ to everyone who has come forward so far.

“We have made great progress with 16 and 17 year olds over the past week or so, but it’s not ‘job done’ yet.

"We must continue with our efforts and get the rest jabbed before schools and colleges return for the autumn term.

“It’s also important that people understand that clinics are not solely for the younger age group.

"I appreciate that some people may have been cautious at the start of this programme or wanted to wait a while, and may have since changed their mind.

“Our vaccination sites will welcome anyone who is eligible. It is never too late to change your mind.”

Her statement comes as the latest round of walk-in clinic dates is announced for the borough.

First and second dose Astra Zeneca and Pfizer vaccinations will be on offer today at Breightmet Health Centre, noon to 7.30pm, Market Place Shopping Centre, 8.30am to 5.30pm, Horwich RMI Club, 9am to 2pm, Hootons at BWFC (Pfizer only), 8.15am to 1.45pm and the vaccination bus will be in Queens Park, Vaccination Bus (Pfizer only), from 10am to 4pm.

The Breightmet venue, Horwich RMI and Queens Park vaccination bus will also be operating at various times on Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday will see sessions at Horwich RMI and Hootons at BWFC, all for AZ and Pfizer first and second dose cases.