A COUNCILLOR is putting his skills as a pharmacist to good use by giving colleagues the flu jab.

Graham Jones, the leader of West Berkshire Council, is helping the likes of Richard Benyon MP to stay healthy this winter by giving out flu vaccines.

The council offers frontline staff a free vaccination if they do not already quality in order to 'minimise disruption' to community services.

Cllr Jones said: "As a pharmacist I know all too well how important this vaccination is and I hope that this will encourage others to follow in our footsteps and have their flu jab this year."

Newbury MP Mr Benyon and Nick Carter, chief executive of the council, received the vaccination.

Vaccinations are free on the NHS if you are over 65, pregnant, or have certain medical conditions.

Visit: www.nhs.uk/pages/home.aspx for more information.