THE birthplace of vaccination has been re-opened after an intensive restoration project.

Professors, historians and dignitaries gathered for the official re-opening of the Temple of Vaccinia in Dr Edward Jenner’s garden in Berkeley.

The small thatched house, which Jenner used in the 18th to 19th centuries to vaccinate the poor, was re-opened by Joe Cerrell, from US-based Gates Foundation – a charity founded by Microsoft owner Bill Gates which supports polio vaccination around the world.

Dr Jenner’s discovery of vaccination led to the eventual eradication of smallpox, a deadly disease that killed millions of people and his initial research eventually led to modern vaccination as we know it.

The Temple of Vaccinia is a small thatched building in the grounds of the medical pioneer’s home. Following a grant from the Country Houses Foundation the building was able to undergo restoration including a new roof, new leaded-light window with hand-blown glass and the installation of electricity to shine a light on the interior.

On Saturday an open day was held in the grounds with BBC presenter Prof Mark Horton, from Wotton, acting as master of ceremonies and giving a talk on the history of the building.

Members of the public were then able to enjoy picnics on the lawn and live music.