New Covid-19 test sites offering results in up to 30 minutes set to open in Derbyshire towns

The sites – which are for people over the age of 11 who do not have coronavirus symptoms – will use tests which deliver results in up to 30 minutes.

MORE: Derbyshire police want to trace man who helped 'assaulted' woman

The Shirebrook centre is for those living in the town or in Whaley Thorns, Langwith, Scarcliffe or Pleasley.

The South Normanton facility is for those in the town or in Blackwell, Pinxton or Westhouses.

Both centres will open on Monday until February 28.

Dean Wallace, director of public health at Derbyshire County Council, said: “I’m pleased that we are to open two more centres – as well as the ones already open in Swadlincote and Heanor.

“If you live in or close to Shirebrook or South Normanton and don’t have any coronavirus symptoms, please come and get a test.

“By getting tested you are doing the right thing and ultimately helping to stop the transmission of coronavirus.

“Around a third of those who have coronavirus do not have any symptoms so this testing helps us to pick up these people and make sure they don’t spread the virus.

“You’ll be given one of the rapid lateral flow tests which give results in about 15 to 30 minutes.”

Councillor Barry Lewis, leader of the county council, added: “I’d urge all those living in the local area to the centres to come along and get a test.

“Getting a test doesn’t mean you can’t still catch the virus so please continue to wash your hands regularly, keep your distance and wear a face covering unless you are exempt.”

Those attending are asked not to bring bags or other items with them that they don’t consider to be essential but are asked to bring a fully charged smart phone if they have one. Parents or guardians are asked to accompany those aged 11 to 16.

To find out what the demand is like at the centres when you want to go along, visit https://derbyshire.maps.test-and-trace.nhs.uk/findatestcenter.html.

Centre addresses and opening times

Shirebrook Village Hall, Park Road, Shirebrook, NG20 8JP

Post Mill Centre, Market Street, South Normanton, DE55 2EJ

Monday to Friday: 9am to 7pm

Saturday and Sunday: 9am to 4pm

MORE: ‘The fightback is on’: Covid-19 vaccinations begin at Chesterfield’s historic Winding Wheel

Editor’s message

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription at www.localsubsplus.co.uk or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.