Dr Edward Jenner commemorative plaque unveiled

It is believed that Jenner discovered the link between cowpox and smallpox while in the town

A plaque commemorating the smallpox vaccination pioneer Edward Jenner has been unveiled in Chipping Sodbury.

It is the first of six plaques installed on properties in the town to celebrate its heritage.

The plaque was unveiled on Melbourne House in Horse Street, where Jenner, from Berkeley, Gloucestershire, lived during a seven year apprenticeship.

It is believed he discovered the link between cowpox and smallpox while training in the town.

Archaeologist and TV presenter Prof Mark Horton, who is a trustee of the Jenner Museum, unveiled the plaque to coincide with Jenner's birth date - on 17 May 1749.

Helen Jeffrey, from the Jenner Museum, said: "The Jenner Trust are delighted that Edward Jenner has been honoured by the award of a plaque, it is likely that Jenner discovered the link between cowpox and smallpox while he was training as an apprentice surgeon in Sodbury."