Two more coronavirus testing centres are set to open in Northumberland as part of the Government's community testing scheme across the UK.
The centres will be opened at Sandstell car park in Berwick and at the site of the former fire station at the Tyne Mills Industrial Estate in Hexham.
Testing will begin at the Berwick site on Friday November 13 and at the centre in Hexham on Saturday November 14.
Public Health Consultant, Jim Brown said: “These testing sites are purpose-built locations where people who are experiencing symptoms of Covid-19 can be tested for the virus.
“These are walk-through sites which means they are accessible on foot, as opposed to by car, but we must stress appointments are still required before attending to ensure that sites have enough capacity to meet demand and prevent them from becoming overcrowded.”
The two new centres add to the current testing sites that have been running in Blyth and Ashington.
Only people who have symptoms of coronavirus - a new cough, high temperature or loss of taste and/or smell - should get a test, which must be booked in advance.
Currently, the weekly rate of new coronavirus infections in Northumberland stands at 232.3 per 100,000 people, with 749 cases recorded in the seven days to November 6.
Northumberland councillor Richard Dodd, deputy leader with responsibility for public health, said: “Local testing centres have made it even easier to get a free coronavirus test.
"If you have symptoms, however mild, please get tested now to help stop the spread of the virus and protect the people around you."
Anyone that tests positive for the virus will be contacted by NHS Test and Trace to help them track their contacts.
Close contacts will then be advised to stay at home for 14 days to prevent them from spreading the virus and they will be advised to book a test if they develop symptoms.
The Department of Health and Social Care is responsible for the operation of the new centres and any appointment slots must be booked online via nhs.uk/coronavirus
