Sheffield’s legendary ‘man with the pram’ John Burkhill gets second Covid vaccine

82-year-old John, who is famous in Sheffield for his charity fundraising efforts and trademark green wig and pram, is now fully vaccinated but will still need to wait two weeks to gain full immunity.

In 2019, John was given the Freedom of the City of Sheffield in recognition of his fundraising for Macmillan spanning four decades while last year he received a second British Empire Medal from the Queen. He was also awarded a Pride of Britain Award in 2013.

Grateful to be vaccinated and hopeful for the future, John has shared a video message encouraging others to get the covid vaccine.

He said: “I’ve had my second vaccine and I’m grateful to the NHS that I’m protected, there’s nothing to be frightened of, the NHS are doing what’s right. I didn’t have any side effects and would encourage everyone to get vaccinated.

“I’m so looking forward to getting back out on the road again.”

In Sheffield over 267,000 people have received their first dose of a Covid vaccine and everyone in the top nine priority groups has been invited for one. 84,000 have now received a second dose too.

Alun Windle, chief nurse and covid vaccination lead at NHS Sheffield CCG, said: “We reached a milestone in April inviting everyone in the top priority groups for their covid vaccine.

“Having both doses is important as this gives you the best protection so don’t delay when you’re invited. You’ll typically be invited for your second dose at week 11 and this could be at short notice so please be prepared for the invite to come at any time. You’ll receive the same vaccine as you did for your first.

“Thank you to everyone who has been vaccinated so far, we’re making great progress in Sheffield and long may this continue.”

If you are in an eligible group – meaning you are 45 or over, have a health condition that puts you at greater risk, or are a health or social care worker – you can book your vaccine at www.nhs.uk/covid-vaccination or by phoning 119.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.