“They are keeping us oldies alive!”

Words of relief from Ken and Gwen Whibley, who were among the first patients in Maidstone and villages to get vaccinated against Covid-19.

They were among scores heading to The Glebe Medical Centre in Harrietsham which handled jabs for patients of Bearsted Medical Practice, Len Valley Practice, Headcorn, Sutton Valence and Orchard surgeries.

Mr Whibley, 84, said: “We feel fantastic, there were no problems at all.”

Barbara Hogg, 90, from Chart Sutton, said it was an honour to have the jab.

"I was very pleased to have it and I think the family were too," she said. "I’m going to my granddaughters for Christmas but I will be sticking to the rules still, just like I wish more people would."

Donald Keen from Biddenden arrived with Lysa Whatmore from Biddenden Cars, where volunteers are helping to drive people to appointments they couldn't otherwise get to.

The 86-year-old Mr Keen said: "I was over the moon to get the call, it was such a surprise, everyone is jealous of me.

"Lockdown has been terrible because I live on my own, but time did go quite quickly. When I've had the other vaccine I shall be a bit more relieved.

"It will be a bit more freedom for me and I shall jump in my car and get out more."

Peter Cooper, 87, from Headcorn said the whole process has been very well organised.

He said: "I was very pleased to get the call. The other good thing is that I have already got my next appointment booked for January 6, it's all very efficient."

Husband and wife, Jean and Tony Vastable said they were able to go straight in with no problems and praised the 'marvellous' work of the NHS.

The message of thanks was echoed by 81-year-old Kathleen O'Sullivan from Leeds who spent many years working for the health service.

"I know we would be lost without them," she said adding, "The whole process has been brilliant."

GP services in Kent and Medway began delivering the vaccine this week, and at least nine primary care-based Covid-19 vaccination services will opening in Kent and Medway.

Dr Navin Kumta, Ashford GP and clinical chair of Kent and Medway Clinical Commissioning Group, said: "This is fantastic news. General practice will play an integral part of rolling out the vaccine across Kent and Medway. It is a massive step forward in our fight against Covid-19."

Read more: All the latest news from Maidstone