KEIGHLEY’S deputy mayor says young people have a vital part to play in defeating Covid-19.

Councillor Luke Maunsell is urging those in the 25 to 30 age group to ensure they get vaccinated.

The 25-year-old was speaking after receiving his jab at the town’s Emily Street Mosque.

“Young people are going to be key in defeating Covid-19 once and for all,” said Cllr Maunsell.

“There is no getting away from how difficult the last year-and-a-half has been but now, thanks to the vaccine, there is an end in sight.

“To make sure we get there, however, every young person needs to do their civic duty and get vaccinated. This will help stop the spread, keep our communities safe and get our lives back to normal.

“I understand that some may still be anxious about getting the jab, but I would like to assure you that it is safe, easy and painless. Tens of millions have already taken it and I hope and know that our brilliant young people, across this town and beyond, will join them in vanquishing this horrible disease forever.”

Cllr Maunsell – who was joined at the vaccination clinic by Keighley Town Council project worker, Damien Summers – added that he would support any other efforts in the town to encourage vaccination take-up amongst young people.

His comments come as health chiefs voice concerns over increasing numbers in the Bradford district of cases involving the Delta, or Indian, variant of the virus.

Bradford Council’s director of public health, Sarah Muckle, is encouraging residents to get tested. There are a number of testing sites open daily, at venues including Victoria Hall in Keighley.

And she says people should ensure they take-up both doses of the vaccine when offered.

“I would urge people to take the opportunity to get a test even if they don’t have any symptoms,” said Ms Muckle.

“We want to help stop the new Delta variant from spreading further and I would ask everyone, across all our communities to protect themselves and their families by getting tested. Tests are simple and you don’t need an appointment.

“And when you’re offered the vaccination, both doses, please take it up as soon as you can to help reduce the spread of the virus. We all need to follow the guidelines and protect our local community.”