A MOBILE testing unit for coronavirus returns to Wirral later this week bringing extra capacity.

Operating strictly by appointment only, it is back in West Kirby from Thursday to Sunday.

The testing site will provide an additional 400 ‘self-swab' tests per day.

Anyone turning up without booking will be turned away.

The mobile unit is in addition to Wirral’s satellite testing centre in Bidston which operates seven days a week.

For the latest information, visit www.wirral.gov.uk/test where you can also book a test at the Bidston satellite site.

Everyone over the age of five who is showing symptoms of coronavirus – a high temperature, a new continuous cough, or a loss of or change to their sense of smell or taste – is eligible to apply for a test.

If the above criteria can apply for a test at the mobile site through the NHS website or the Gov.uk website, and select the Wirral site as an option via the booking process. Instructions on how to take the test and how and when individuals will receive their results will be provided when they take their test.

This is a drive through, self-testing centre. People will need to drive in their own vehicle or a vehicle driven by a someone in their household.

Wirral Council leader, Cllr Pat Hackett said: "As we move to the next stage in tackling the COVID-19 it is crucial that anyone with symptoms of the virus is able to book an appointment via a robust local testing scheme.

"This approach to testing will help slow the spread of coronavirus and allow for effective outbreak management and control, where necessary.

"Health and social care and other key workers will continue to be prioritised but the mobile testing facility will support Wirral’s existing satellite testing site at Bidston which offers tests for all those in the borough who are symptomatic with COVID-19."

To book a test, click here: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/testing-and-tracing/get-an-antigen-test-to-check-if-you-have-coronavirus/