PICTURES SHOW EMPTY VIRUS-TESTING CENTRE

PICTURES taken at Weston-super-Mare’s temporary mobile coronavirus testing unit show it was empty hours into its second day.

The centre, operated by military personnel and available for pre-booked tests only, launched on Tuesday at Locking Road car park.

But photos from the site this week show the site deserted, bar a lone worker sitting under the shade of a red tarpaulin.

A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said 127 people were booked into the testing centre for a test on Tuesday, and it is continuing to take bookings.

They said North Somerset Council had issued notices giving details of who is eligible and how to make an appointment.

They said: “Testing is a crucial part of tackling this virus and we encourage everyone if they are eligible and need a test to book one online.”

North Somerset Council say the centre is likely to be in the car park for several days, which will not be available for public parking during that time.

The unit will operate from 10am until 4pm each day and appointments can be made through the Government website or by calling 119.

Mobile testing units have an integrated one-way system which allows those with an appointment to attend for either walk-in or drive through testing.

Essential workers will be given priority at the testing unit, the council has also confirmed.

The eligibility criteria for tests has been extended to include: » anyone aged five and over with symptoms.