Calls to use north Derbyshire Covid test centre after woman claims it was empty

Hair stylist Marie Byman says she was ‘very surprised’ to find the centre at Clay Cross so quiet when she attended for a test at 9.15am on Tuesday, February 23.

She found out about the testing centre, at Clay Cross Social Centre, on Market Street, through Facebook and went along to get checked although she did not have any symptoms.

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"Most people think you have to have symptoms to go but that isn’t the case,” Marie, from Wingerworth, said. “I got the results through by text within 40 minutes.

“I would absolutely advise people to go, the staff were so friendly and happy and I was only in there five minutes as it was very well organised.

"You are asked to do the test yourself, which is so quick, easy and not painful or uncomfortable. It’s such a shame more people don’t know about it.”

Derbyshire County Council urged ‘as many people as possible who don’t have symptoms to go along and get tested’.

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“Our testing centre opened on February 12 at Clay Cross Social Centre, Market Street and is available from 9am to 7pm seven days a week.

“We’d encourage as many people as possible who don’t have symptoms to go along and get tested, especially if they are going out to work and mixing with colleagues or the public.

“The testing process is very quick and they should get the results back within the hour to give them peace of mind that they are protecting their family, friends and colleagues. There’s no need to book, they can just turn up. Residents will get support if they test positive.

“It’s important to get tested regularly - ideally once a week - and people shouldn’t forget to keep following the basic precautions by washing their hands regularly, wearing a face covering unless exempt and keeping their distance from people not in the household or support bubble.

“If anyone has symptoms they should not visit the community testing centre in Market Street but should book a test by ringing NHS 119 or visiting www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test”

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 or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.