A MOBILE coronavirus testing unit returns to Wirral next week bringing extra capacity for tests.

The drive-through facility, in West Kirby from Monday to Thursday, will operate on a 'strictly by apointment' basis and provide an additional 400 'self-swab' tests per day.

Anyone turning up without booking will be turned away.

The unit is in addition to Wirral's satellite testing centre in Bidston which operates seven days a week.

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

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

Residents who meet the above criteria can apply for a test at the mobile site through the NHS website or the www.Gov.uk website, and select the Wirral site as an option via the booking process.

People will need to drive in their own vehicle or a vehicle driven by a someone in their household.

Council Leader Pat Hackett said: "As we move to the next stage in tackling the coronavirus pandemic it is even more vital that we have effective local testing which 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.

"Health and social care and other key workers will continue to be prioritised but the mobile testing facility will support Wirral’s existing satellite testing site at Bidston which offers tests for all those in the borough who are symptomatic with COVID-19."