By Sarah Atherton, MP for Wrexham

I'd like to start my column by thanking all of those working tirelessly to develop and administer the vaccine.

This is the biggest vaccination programme in NHS history and is an important step in our country's fight against the virus, providing many with fresh hope that we can beat this pandemic, reclaim our lives and get our economy moving again.

It is vital that as the vaccine is rolled out, starting with the most vulnerable groups, that we abide by lockdown restrictions and do not relax our guard, ensuring our communities are protected and that the sacrifices we've all made over the last year have not been in vain.

Whilst we're making great strides, like many residents, I am disappointed with the Welsh Government's decision to delay the roll-out here in Wales.

On behalf of Wrexham residents, I have lobbied the Welsh Government to reconsider this illogical decision and to ensure that as many people get vaccinated as soon as possible, which is vital in protecting lives.

Further, I have relayed residents' concerns about the handling of the roll-out and health services in North Wales directly to the health board, Welsh and UK Governments.

The vaccine is available here in Wales, but the Welsh Government seem unable to oversee it being administered. I will continue to work with both colleagues in Parliament and the Welsh Government to ensure that North Wales catches up with the rest of country's roll-out.

In addition to the roll-out of the vaccine, we have made much progress in the volume of treatments available. Earlier this month two new drugs, tocilizumab and sarilumab, were approved to treat people with coronavirus, when added to the armoury of vaccines and treatments already available, it will play a significant role in defeating the virus.

As always, if there is anything I can do to be of any assistance, please don't hesitate to contact me. My details along with a form to sign up to my monthly newsletter is available on my website: www.sarahatherton.org.uk