The incredible roll-out of vaccines in Devizes has been highlighted in a council meeting this evening. (January 19)

In December, the Corn Exchange was transformed into a bustling coronavirus vaccination centre. The first local resident to receive the vaccine was Richard Conroy, at 8.30am, on December 16.

Since then, a steady stream of people have been able to access the hub for their vaccinations.

During Devizes Town Council’s Recreation and Properties Committee this evening, councillors spoke of how the Corn Exchange was offered to the NHS at the first opportunity.

Town Clerk Simon Fisher said: “As part of our support for the NHS we are giving them the building free of charge. It’s quite a significant logistical exercise as you can imagine.

“It did mean we were vaccinating in Devizes prior to most places in Wiltshire, because we were working so closely with them to make sure there was a facility they could use."

Other councillors were full of praise for the roll-out of vaccines as well

Cllr Kelvin Nash took his father for his jab this week, and said the space was “perfect” for such an operation.

Cllr Peter Evans added: "I’ve got my first jab due Saturday afternoon, which I’m really looking forward to."

Speaking after the meeting, Mr Fisher added: “The Town Council we were keen to ensure that there was a local vaccination centre for Devizes residents and therefore we wanted to work closely with are local GP practice team by providing the Corn Exchange free of charge to support the great work they are doing.

“This has proved to be wonderful partnership, from which our community have benefited and will continue to benefit for months to come. “

Across Wiltshire, medical surgeries are also rolling out batches of potentially life-saving vaccinations.

Market Lavington Surgery has administered vaccinations for residents and staff at Dauntsey House Care Home, giving way to “hope for a better future.”

Victoria Grew, events co-ordinator at the home, said: “It does feel special.

“We do, interestingly, have a divided opinion here. A few of our residents believe they shouldn’t’ be getting it and that it should be going the younger generation, or school-age children, first which is quite a selfless thought.

“They’ve been watching and waiting for updates all through this. It’s the only way we’re going to move forward, the country won’t return to normal until everyone gets the vaccine

“Throughout lockdown we’ve done a lot of video calls from family members and everyone speaks at least once a week to their family or friend via video links. Our residents respond really well, but it’s just not the same as a kiss or cuddle and they are missing that, but at least with the vaccines we’re closer to that stage now.”

This Is Wiltshire:

There are currently 19 vaccination sites in operation across the area, with each one responsible for providing the vaccine to patients registered at GP practices within the local community.

Salisbury Cathedral became the latest sites to open on Saturday.