Over 1,500 Milton Keynes residents volunteer for coronavirus vaccine studies

The rollout of the coronavirus vaccine is under way across the UK, giving hope for a way out of the crisis which changed our lives nearly a year ago.

But developing a vaccine wouldn't have been possible without a pool of volunteers from across the four nations, including those from Milton Keynes taking part in the latest research.

Those involved will be required to visit a hospital or research site every few months for testing. The study will typically involve: answering questions, undergoing blood tests and injections – which could be the vaccine – and keeping a diary of any symptoms between hospital visits.

The latest NHS Digital data shows 1,795 people from Milton Keynes had volunteered to take part in coronavirus vaccine studies.

Of those, the largest proportion (41%) were aged between 40 and 59, while 30% were aged 60 to 79.

Across the South East as a whole, 65,100 people had signed up by January 7, as the national army of volunteers reached 379,000.

The figure is rising daily, as people can still put themselves forward to potentially take part in clinical trials, yet not everyone who signs up will take part in this ongoing study.

The NHS, which worked with the National Institute for Health Research to provide a volunteer service, said: "Vaccines are the most effective way to prevent infectious diseases. They are designed so they do not give people the infection they're protecting against.

"Research into vaccines is the only way to find out which ones will work."

Downing Street confirmed this week that mass vaccination hubs at seven sites across England – including sports venues and London’s ExCel convention centre – will begin operations next week.

Hubs will be set up in London, Newcastle, Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol, Surrey and Stevenage, Number 10 said.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson believes the rollout of vaccines will provide a route out of the third national lockdown.

In a televised address to the nation, he said people in the top four priority groups should receive a jab by mid-February.