Rapid Covid testing set up in Thornton for Wyre symptom-free workers

A lateral flow testing centre has been set up at Thornton's YMCA Leisure Centre in Victoria Road East, which will open Mondays to Fridays from 9am to 4.30pm.

Wyre residents who leave their home to go to work are now being encouraged to get tested at least once a week - and if possible every three to five days.

Testing is free, and no appointment is required.

Those tested will receive their results by text or email within around 30 minutes.

Workers must not attend the testing site if they have any Covid-19 symptoms. Anyone with symptoms must self-isolate, and book a test by calling 119, through the NHS Covid app, or through the NHS website.

Coun David Henderson, leader of Wyre Council, said: "We’re inviting anyone who has to leave home to work, to get tested at least once a week to help stop the spread of coronavirus.

"The centre is open for anyone who is self-employed or who works for a business not currently offering testing.

"Symptom-free testing is currently voluntary, but it will help people to make informed decisions to help keep themselves and their families safe, and help protect those most vulnerable to Covid-19.

"It is estimated that around one in three people might not display symptoms but are still infectious. In order to bring rates down it’s vital to break these chains of infection and repeated testing may help us do that.

"The testing centre is for those who can only work by leaving their home, anyone else who is concerned they may have coronavirus should book a test in the normal way, through the NHS website, app or by calling 119.

"The centre is a pilot for Wyre and if it proves to be successful we will look at how we can offer the testing at other sites in the borough.”

Anyone testing positive will need to self-isolate for 10 days, along with their household or support bubble.

"Self-isolating is crucial for stopping the spread of coronavirus," Coun Henderson continued.

"It is also a legal requirement for anyone who tests positive. We understand it’s hard but please know that by staying at home you are stopping the spread of coronavirus in the community, literally saving lives.

"If you are on a low income, you may be entitled to the self-isolation support payment and if you don’t have the support of friends or family our community hub is here to help."