PUBLIC sector key workers in the borough displaying coronavirus symptoms have been offered testing this week as an army-run mobile unit arrived.

The service, operated by military personnel, is based at Robin Park, Wigan and open between Monday 18th to Wednesday 20th May.

Tests are available on an appointment-only basis.

After the first three days of testing the military will move away for ten days before returning for a further three days of testing. This schedule will continue according to local demand.   

Wigan council leader, councillor David Molyneux, said: “I’d like to thank our Covid-19 response team for securing the mobile testing unit for Wigan. Having a local unit will help support our key workers to get tested quickly allowing them to return to their essential roles if they are safe to do so.”

It will be one of the 100 mobile coronavirus units travelling across the country to areas with a high demand for tests, or where it is difficult for people to go to their nearest regional drive-through site. 

Other sites available to keyworkers in Greater Manchester include Manchester Airport.

Access to the arena section of Robin Park will be restricted and a number of pedestrian and road diversions and closures will be in place to allow access only to those being tested. 

Those not visiting the site to be tested are asked to avoid the Robin Park Leisure Centre and Arena area when the unit is operational.

Test results will be returned within 48 hours of swabs being taken.

Go to www.gov.uk/apply-coronavirus-test to book an appointment.