Covid testing site up and running in Kettering car park

A temporary coronavirus testing site run by the Army has opened in Kettering today (Friday).

The mobile testing unit, run by the 3rd Battalion Royal Anglian Regiment, is at the London Road car park near the town's swimming pool and will be there for three days until Sunday, June 7.

When the Northants Telegraph visited this morning a few people had arrived to be tested, including frontline carer Dorian Bucsi.

A total of 12 soldiers, led by Major Matt Blayney, are running the testing site with a one-way system for cars to get in.

They are geared up to do up to 330 tests a day but they are expecting 220, based on the number of cars so far.

Tests are by appointment-only and people cannot turn up to get tested without booking. Appointments can be made online at www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-getting-tested.

The eligibility criteria for tests include anyone with coronavirus symptoms (a new, continuous cough; high temperature; loss of or change in sense of smell or taste). Essential workers will be given priority.

In recent weeks mobile testing units have been set up at Corby's Rockingham Triangle - although the Government originally gave out the wrong address - and the Tesco superstore in Wellingborough.

A mobile testing unit will also be in Northampton from June 7 to June 9.

Cllr Jonathan Nunn, leader of Northampton Borough Council, said: “Testing is a vital part of tackling this dreadful virus and the Covid-19 Mobile Testing Units, which are available in Kettering and Northampton respectively over the coming days, will provide residents who are experiencing symptoms with the opportunity to be tested locally.

“Tests are available by appointment only to anyone who is symptomatic – so that means a new, continuous cough, a high temperature or a loss or change in their sense of taste or smell.

“To book an appointment please visit the government website at www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-getting-tested. Once you have booked you will be given the location of the testing site and details of how to get there.”

More guidance can be found at www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-getting-tested#who-can-be-tested.