CORONAVIRUS tests are now available for more people at the satellite centre in Wirral.

The authority's director of public health, Julie Webster, said today that all essential workers and those over 65 with symptoms of the coronavirus illness will now be able to register for an appointment to have the test.

Plus, as schools begin a gradual re-opening, all staff at school and children over five years of age with symptoms will be eligible for testing.

Priority will continue to be given to health and social care workers, with or without COVID-19 symptoms.

The main symptoms of coronavirus are a high temperature, a new, continuous cough and/or loss or change to your sense of smell or taste.

These symptoms are regularly reviewed and updated at www.nhs.uk/coronavirus

The tests, at Wirral Satellite Testing Centre at Bidston, are strictly by appointment only; anyone who attempts to turn up at a testing facility without one will be turned away.

For the full list of key workers see the following link: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-getting-tested#list-of-essential-workers-and-those-prioritised-for-testing-england-only

To book a test follow this link: www.wirral.gov.uk/test

Wirral's director of public health, Julie Webster, said: "Increased local testing helps to slow the spread of coronavirus and make sure people get the right advice for themselves, their family, and anyone they may have been in contact with.

"This is a difficult time for us all and more testing will help us track the spread of the virus and will ultimately help to bring some normality back into everyone's lives.

"I want to remind residents that the testing site will continue to operate strictly by appointment only. Please do not visit the site without an appointment - you will not be tested but you may delay vital coronavirus testing for those who need it."