AS the coronavirus vaccination programme rollout continues at a pace in Ryedale, a community is celebrating their ‘unsung heroes’.

Pickering Medical Practice has been selected as the main hub to deliver vaccines to patients in Pickering, Helmsley, Terrington and Kirkbymoorside.

Many people have stepped up to offer their support including The Pickering Volunteer Network, vaccinators, administration staff and Ryedale Community Transport.

The Sun Inn, The White Swan Inn, The Black Swan, Thomas the Baker, Co-op Food, Hanns the Butcher, Scrumptious Deli, Willowgate Bistro, Country Crust and Taylors of Pickering have also offered their time and resources.

“Our volunteers all get marvellous recognition on a daily basis, but these guys are behind the scenes and deserve some recognition,” said Councillor Carrie Brackstone.

“As co-ordinator for the volunteers at the surgery, I would really like to publicly thank some people who have provided tireless support to us.

“Rob Allanson, from The Sun Inn, and Bart Botzen have braved Baltic temperatures and early mornings to set up a marque for our volunteers.

“Predominantly, I would really love to thank Darren Clemmit from The White Swan, who has made soup for the volunteers and staff at the surgery every single week since vaccinations began.”

Darren Clemmit, head chef of The White Swan, decided to contribute something back to the community during the pandemic.

Darren, with the support of the hotel team, has provided thousands of free meals to York and Scarborough Hospital and raised more than £15,000 to pay for vacations at The White Swan Inn for NHS staff and their partners.

Since the beginning of the vaccination programme, he has prepared around 40 soups every Saturday for the volunteers and staff at the Pickering Medical Practice.

“Regardless of his recent voluntary role, Darren was already a shining light in our community,” added Cllr Brackstone.

“He must be one of the most loyal chefs in the business. In nearly 35 years of continuous service he has only ever had one day off sick.

“When in early January he heard that the volunteer force helping the local surgery to roll out vaccinations needed sustenance, he immediately swung into action.

“Every Saturday, Darren has prepared at least 40 soups for the volunteers and staff. He normally prepares three or four different soups to make sure there is something for everyone.”