OVER 28 per cent of Keighley residents have now received their first Covid-19 vaccine, according to latest figures.

But there was a warning this week that people must not drop their guard in the battle to beat the virus.

New data reveals that 28.3 per cent of adults in the parliamentary constituency, which includes Ilkley, have been vaccinated.

Nationally, around one in three adults have received the jab and the aim is for all top-nine priority groups to be covered by the middle of next month – and every adult by the end of July.

Keighley MP Robbie Moore said: "The NHS vaccination programme, the biggest in our country’s history, has been a fantastic success story and showcases the very best of collaboration across the United Kingdom.

"I would like to thank everyone involved in this enormous effort, without whom this would not be possible.

"It’s great to see that so many people across Keighley and Ilkley have received the vaccine as we lead the world in our fightback against coronavirus. As well as the major regional vaccine centres, residents have been able to access vaccines at Silsden Medical Centre, Long Lee Surgery, Spring Medical Centre in Ilkley, Airedale Hospital and Keighley Central Mosque.

"We are defeating this virus by the hundreds of thousands of jabs going into people’s arms every day, giving us hope as we look to a route back to normality."

But Bradford Council leader Councillor Susan Hinchcliffe warns that whilst the vaccine is having an impact, people cannot become complacent.

Speaking this week, a year on from the first case of coronavirus being confirmed in the district, she said: "The vaccine is making a difference and communities are responding well when they get their invitations.

"However infection rates haven’t fallen enough and we must stay vigilant and keep going with the key actions that will help reduce the risks of Covid-19 – washing our hands every time we go somewhere or get home, using a face covering when shopping or near crowded areas and keeping at least two metres away from others where possible. We must protect each other.

"I’m convinced that a better tomorrow is round the corner. The council is preparing for that tomorrow by planning investment in catch-up classes for children, jobs programmes for those unemployed and more support for people suffering from mental health issues. But in the meantime let’s all play our part to keep the infection rate down whilst the vaccines are delivered. These hard times will pass.”

Cllr Hinchcliffe praises the community spirit shown across the district since the start of the pandemic – and thanks those workers on the frontline.

She said: "Many people in our communities have lost family members and friends. And people have faced hardships, lost their jobs and livelihoods.

"But, through it all, I have been heartened by the caring folk of Bradford district – the community spirit and kindness shown and the strength of character we have. We’re made of stern stuff.

"I cannot thank enough those in the council, health workers, voluntary and charitable organisations, care home workers, teachers – and many more people than I could mention ­– who have worked tirelessly to support those in need and continue to do so. Many are exhausted but carry on for the love of the place and people they serve."