A WOMAN in her eighties who received her Covid-19 vaccine this week described it as a "wonderful experience".

Vicky Lawrence, 83, of Spire View, received her vaccine at Salisbury Cathedral on Wednesday afternoon.

She was accompanied by her son Craig, a local author and former civil servant who lives in Laverstock.

"It was in a beautiful building, with wonderful organ music playing, and it was so well organised," she said.

Salisbury Journal: Cubicles erected inside Salisbury Cathedral for people to receive an injection of the Pfizer coronavirus vaccine. Photo: Steve Parsons/PA WireCubicles erected inside Salisbury Cathedral for people to receive an injection of the Pfizer coronavirus vaccine. Photo: Steve Parsons/PA Wire

'Don't be nervous or doubtful'

Vicky urges everyone who is eligible for the vaccine to make sure they have it.

She said: "Don't be nervous or doubtful. It is a pleasant experience.

"If you're thinking of not having the vaccine, that is foolish."

Vicky and Craig also praised the community spirit of the day, singling out all the volunteers and doctors and staff involved in ensuring everything runs smoothly.

Upon arriving at the Cathedral they were greeted in the car park, with a shuttle service to the Cathedral entrance for those who might be unable to walk the distance.

The queue is then around the Cloisters, before entering the main hall where there are around 18-20 cubicles, where local GPs administer the vaccine.

The doctor who gave Vicky her jab was doing so in their own free time, and ensured Vicky felt comfortable and reassured.

The doctor also offered to answer any questions she might have had before, during and after the process.

Salisbury Journal: The Pfizer coronavirus vaccine is prepared by a health worker. Picture: Steve Parsons/PA Wire.The Pfizer coronavirus vaccine is prepared by a health worker. Picture: Steve Parsons/PA Wire.

'We are extremely grateful'

After the vaccine has been injected, you wait fifteen minutes to check you don't suffer any sort of reaction to it while in the company of the doctor - and two days later Vicky says she still feels absolutely fine.

For someone like Vicky, who has been isolating for months, it was a chance for a change of scenery and to enjoy getting out of the house.

Craig does her weekly shopping for her, and she has a carer who visits once a week.

On Twitter, Craig said: "Brilliant organisation, friendly medical staff and enthusiastic, helpful volunteers.

"Thank you to all involved - we are extremely grateful."

Vicky received the Pfizer vaccine, and is expected to receive the second dose in around 12 weeks time.

Get more Salisbury news.

You can also like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter and Instagram to stay up to date.

Email newsdesk@salisburyjournal.co.uk with your comments, pictures, letters and news stories.