Hertsmere has the highest proportion of its over 55 residents jabbed with at least one dose of the coronavirus vaccine in Hertfordshire, NHS figures show.

The data, published by NHS England, shows 89.8 per cent (28,665 residents) of the borough's over 55s population had received one dose by March 14, which is the highest proportion in the county, and the joint 26th highest in England.

Collectively, more than 42,000 people living in Hertsmere have had one dose, including those aged under 55.

The areas of Hertsmere where the highest number of residents of any age have been vaccinated at least once are Bushey Heath (5,170 residents), Bushey Central (4,283), Radlett (4,112), and Borehamwood Hillside with 3,661.

Hertsmere Borough Council leader, Morris Bright, said: "Hertsmere has been working closely with the NHS and GP practices so residents can receive their Covid-19 immunisations swiftly. It has taken a huge team effort and that effort is paying off, with Hertsmere having the highest vaccination rate in the county. I turned 55 last month and had mine last week.

"Thank you to everyone involved in making this happen, especially our wonderful NHS staff and volunteers."

The NHS data shows 81.9 per cent (18,446 residents) of Watford's over 55s have had at least one dose, while 86.7 per cent (24,776) have in Three Rivers district.

Watford Observer:

Entrance to the Covid vaccination centre at Asda in Watford

By March 17, more than 25 million first doses have been administered in the UK.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who received the Oxford Astra/Zeneca vaccine today, has insisted the vaccination programme and route out of lockdown remain on track despite a shortfall in the expected supply of jabs.

A delay in deliveries from India and the need to retest a batch of 1.7 million doses is behind the issues with vaccine supply nationally in April.

The over-50s and the clinically vulnerable will still be offered a first dose by April 15, and second doses will be available to around 12 million people in April.

Every adult will be offered a first dose by the end of July, as planned, Mr Johnson added yesterday.