A NEW walk-through coronavirus testing centre has opened in Malvern, as the government seeks to increase its testing capacity.

The new site, which is only available to those with coronavirus symptoms of a new continuous cough or a change to their sense of smell and taste, has been opened in the Como Road Car Park.

The new site is intended for use to those without cars who can walk in for their test.

Those being tested will be required to follow public health measures including social distancing and not using a taxi or public transport to get to the site.

Testing at the new site began on November 24, with appointments being made available every day.

There are now more than 600 testing sites across the UK, including 79 drive-through sites, 341 walk-through sites, 258 mobile units, home testing and satellite kits and five Lighthouse laboratories.

Health Minister Lord Bethell said: “To respond to the coronavirus, we have built a major testing and tracing system from scratch.

“We are constantly working to expand and improve it with new technologies and innovations so everyone with symptoms can get a test.

“New walk-in sites like this one makes it even easier to get a test no matter where you live.

“If you have symptoms of coronavirus, I urge you to book a test today and follow the advice of NHS Test and Trace if you are contacted to protect others and stop the spread of the virus.”

Anyone testing positive for the virus in England will be contacted by NHS Test and Trace to help them trace their contacts. This will help to identify who they may have been in close contact with, protecting others from further transmission.

Close contacts of those testing positive will also hear from NHS Test and Trace, asking them to stay at home for 14 days to prevent them from unknowingly spreading the virus. They will be advised to also book a test if they develop symptoms.

The testing centre is being operated in partnership with G4S and will offer self-administered tests.

For more information and to book your coronavirus test head to www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test