First COVID Vaccine Recipient, William Shakespeare, Dies At 81 – Of A Stroke

William Shakespeare, the first man in the world to receive the COVID vaccine, has died at 81. Shakespeare passed away last Thursday after suffering a stroke. He died at the same hospital where he famously received the vaccine – University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire.

Shakespeare was apparently a “much-loved figure” in the area. According to local councillor Jayne Innes, who told Coventry Live: “He was such a lovely man, one who had a real commitment to making his local area better. During lockdown local families will have enjoyed walking amongst the trees planted by Bill and his colleagues in Allesley back in the 1980s. He was also very involved with the creation of the Coundon Wood in 2005 and in fundraising for the purchase of Elkin Wood, now managed by the Woodland Trust in 1997.”

“Bill was a life-long campaigner, so he was delighted to be able to help encourage everyone to have the vaccine in order to return to all the things we enjoy in life. I’ve had my first. Having our jabs is the best tribute we can all pay Bill. He was a keen photographer, loved jazz and socialising, and also loved the natural world and gardens. Bill will be remembered for many things including a taste for mischief. He was a much respected figure in the Coventry Labour Party and he will be sorely missed.”

Article by Elizabeth Letsou