A MOBILE coronavirus testing unit returns to Wirral this weekend - bringing extra capacity for tests throughout most of August.

The centre will be in, on an appointment-only basis, at Europa Leisure Centre in Birkenhead, by appointment only, from tomorrow until Monday.

It then moves on to Woodchurch Leisure Centre, where it will be based from Tuesday (August 4) to Thursday (August 6).

A Council spokesperson said further dates and locations will be announced later.

The mobile unit, which is walk in or drive through and will provide an additional 400 'self-swab' tests a day, is in addition to Wirral's satellite testing centre in Bidston which operates seven days a week.

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

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

Residents who meet 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.

Cllr Chris Jones, Wirral Council's cabinet member for adult care, health and wellbeing, said: "Effective local testing is becoming more and more important as we move to the next stage in tackling the coronavirus pandemic.

"Good local testing will help slow the spread of the coronavirus and allow people get the right advice for themselves their family and anyone they may have been in contact with.

"As restrictions continue to ease and people start to feel more normality coming back into their lives, it's vital that those who are eligible for a test get tested to help Keep Wirral Well."