Health chiefs in the borough have backed Dudley-born comedian Sir Lenny Henry’s call urging people to take the Covid-19 vaccine.

Sir Lenny, who grew up in the borough before shooting to fame by appearing on TV talent show New Faces in 1975, has written an open letter urging black Britons to take up the offer of the jab.

The comedian and actor said people should “trust the facts” and guard against misinformation. It comes as it was revealed that one in three black Britons had turned down the jab, compared to one in 10 for those identifying as white British. Karen Wright, director of public health at Dudley Council, said:

"We’re very pleased and proud that Sir Lenny, one of our own, has used his public platform to get this absolutely critical advice out there about the vaccine. It is a very emotional message and I hope it hits home with people. The vaccine is the biggest weapon we have in the fight against coronavirus, but its effectiveness ultimately will be dependent on how many people get the jab.

"The take-up amongst ethnic minorities is especially concerning, and I would echo Sir Lenny’s call for people to back the scientists and to take their advice. That goes to everyone irrespective of race or colour – the more people that get the jab, the quicker we will be able to return to some sort of normality. The message is simple – if you are offered the jab, take it."

People aged 50 and over can now get the vaccine if they have not already by booking an appointment online. Others must wait until they are contacted by their GP surgery when they become eligible for the jab.

More information is available at nhs.uk.