A new test site has opened in North Tyneside where people without symptoms can check if they have Covid.
It has been set up at the Whitley Bay Islamic Cultural Centre in an effort to encourage regular testing for people in all communities.
The tests aim to quickly identify anyone with coronavirus who may not be displaying symptoms but could unknowingly pass it on to others. Results are processed within an hour.
Misbah Hanan, community leader at the centre, said: “So far people are responding well to having access to testing in a place they feel comfortable and we want to continue to spread positive Covid-19 messages after Ramadan.
"Getting tested regularly is so important in order to stop the spread of the virus, and therefore in protecting our friends, families and communities.
"The centre is open to everybody, and so I’d encourage everyone to please get tested."
Imam Syed Al Amin added: "One in three people have no Covid-19 symptoms and aren’t aware that they are spreading the virus.
"It is important for people within our community, especially those on the frontline, including those working in the restaurant trade and as taxi drivers, to get tested.
"You will receive your test results within the hour and if you do have the virus you can get support from your local council."
The centre received advice and training from North Tyneside Council and VODA (Voluntary Organisations Development Agency) to set up the testing site.
Wendy Burke, North Tyneside 's director of public health, said: "One in three people with coronavirus don’t display any symptoms, so this testing has a role to play in breaking the chain of transmission and preventing outbreaks in the borough.
"We’d encourage everyone in North Tyneside to get into the habit of twice-weekly testing as part of our everyday lives.
"It helps us all to play our part and do what we can to keep each other safe and, alongside the vaccine, ensures we can continue to ease our way out of lockdown.
"It was brilliant to see the testing site in action at the Islamic Cultural Centre and hear how well it is going.
"I'd like to thank them for their unwavering support during the pandemic, which has also included sharing information with their community and their brilliant work in promoting vaccine uptake and hosting a pop-up vaccine clinic."
The centre is on Rink Way, Whitley Bay, and testing will be available every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, 11am to 1pm and 2pm to 3pm.
This testing is for those without symptoms. Anyone with symptoms, which include a new continuous cough, change or loss of smell or taste and/or a temperature, should self-isolate immediately and book a test via www.nhs.uk/coronavirus or call 119.
On Wednesday, it was announced that at least eight Covid infections had been linked to an outbreak at a Tynemouth bar - including the first known case involving the Indian variant in North Tyneside.
Allard's Lounge Tynemouth temporarily closed due to the outbreak, with customers being urged to get tested. One of those infected was found to be carrying the fast-spreading Indian variant. The venue was expected to reopen on Friday.
