PERSHORE Town Hall is set to become a new testing site for Covid-19.

The site will open on Monday, April 12, and will replace the leisure centre as a testing site.

As the country moves into the next phase of lockdown easing, and gyms and swimming facilities open, Pershore Leisure Centre is preparing to re-open to the public.

The last day that rapid Covid testing will be available at the leisure centre is on Wednesday April 7.

Anyone over the age of 18, who does not have any symptoms of Covid-19, will be able to have a free rapid Covid test at the new testing site, Pershore Town Hall, 34 High Street from Monday. Appointments will be available between 9.30am and 4.15pm, from Monday to Friday.

All appointments can be booked using this online booking link https://www.worcestershire.gov.uk/LateralFlowTesting

Dr Kathryn Cobain, Director of Public Health in Worcestershire, said: “It’s great that Pershore Town Hall is offering support to the local community by becoming the next rapid testing site.

“It is currently advised that if you need to leave home for work or are a member of a household or childcare bubble you should get a twice-weekly rapid test. It is important that our residents can get these tests quickly and easily.

"1 in 3 people with coronavirus do not have any symptoms. Having one of these tests will help identify if you have Covid-19 without knowing. By self-isolating more quickly you can help reduce the spread of the virus.

"By doing this we are all helping to protect our family and loved ones, as well as our community.”

The Mayor of Pershore, Councillor Chris Parsons MBE, said: “The past year has been a difficult one for everyone and we still need to be extremely vigilant in our fight against coronavirus.

“During the past year all levels of local Government have worked together in the fight against this terrible disease and I am pleased that Pershore Town Council is able to continue working with Worcestershire County Council by providing a High Street venue for Rapid testing. I urge everyone to take advantage of this new facility.”

Rapid Covid testing is only suitable for people without symptoms. If you have symptoms of Covid-19 (a new, continuous cough, a high temperature, and a loss or change in your sense of taste or smell) please book a test here: https://www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test

The town hall will also become a community collection point for home testing kits.

To find out more about regular rapid testing, visit: www.worcestershire.gov.uk/communitytesting