Readers will be aware Wales became the first UK nation to reach its target of offering the Covid-19 vaccine to everyone in priority groups 1 – 4 by mid-February.

I once again wish to pay tribute to everyone involved in Wales’ vaccination programme for their outstanding work.

Last week, I met with Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) officials for a further update on the rollout in North Wales.

While take-up of the vaccine is extremely high, with over 90% of all eligible people receiving their first dose, there is a small number of people in the top 4 priority groups that have yet to be vaccinated.

This could be for a variety of reasons.

Some may have missed their appointment due to illness or they may have been unsure about having the vaccine.

Whatever the reason, it’s important no one is left behind.

The North Wales Health Board is working hard checking its records and is re-inviting people for vaccination.

Anyone in the top four priority groups who hasn’t received their first dose, or does not currently have an appointment for it, should call the vaccination helpline on 03000 840004.

The lines may be busy so if any constituent is having difficulties, please contact me.

Attention inevitably turns to the second key milestone, which is to offer the vaccine to everyone in priority groups 5 to 9 by the spring – that’s everyone aged 50 and over, plus all those at-risk because they have an underlying health condition.

Subject to supply, the Welsh Government believes it is on track to reach this target by the end of April.

Last week, BCUHB also started administering the second dose of the Pfizer vaccine.

Clearly, there is still a great deal of work to be done but everyone in Wales can be extremely proud of the progress to date.

I do not underestimate just how difficult this period has been for businesses in Wrexham.

The Welsh Government provides the most generous package of financial support anywhere in the UK and recently announced a further £200m to help firms through to March.

This funding is passed on to councils so it can be automatically administered to local businesses as quickly as possible.

If you own a hairdressers, a restaurant or a gym, you could be entitled to this funding.

The Welsh Government estimates there are thousands of eligible businesses missing out simply because they are not registered with their Local Authority, and I know this has unfortunately been the case in Wrexham.

If you own a business that pays non-domestic rates but have not registered with Wrexham Council since before the firebreak in October, please contact them urgently via email: businessrates@wrexham.gov.uk or call: 01978 298990.