DOZENS of Northwich residents have been to get a coronavirus test today, Thursday, following an increased number of cases in the town in the past week.

Cheshire West and Chester Council says a surge in cases in both Northwich and Winsford are likely to be the Delta (Indian) variant which is more transmissible.

To reduce the spread, all residents have been advised to book a PCR test - even if they do not have symptoms.

Northwich Guardian:

A mobile PCR testing unit is currently based in Cumberland Street Car Park, Leicester Street, Northwich.

This is for pre-booked appointments, 12-8pm.

Another PCR testing centre is located at the Old Depot in Leicester Street, Northwich.

Northwich Guardian:

This provides PCR tests daily from 8am-8pm and is open to people wishing to walk up without an appointment, in addition to pre-booked appointments.

A spokesman for the council previously explained: "Over the past seven days we have seen a large increase in the number of cases of Covid-19 resulting in a number of outbreaks in businesses and schools.

Northwich Guardian:

"Similar to the North West, the current increase in the number of new cases are more likely to belong to the variant B.1.617.2 (Delta variant) which is more transmissible than other previous variants.

"To reduce the spread of the virus, and understand the extent of spread, Cheshire West and Chester Council's Public Health Team is now advising all residents in Northwich and Winsford to book a PCR test whether they have symptoms or not.”

To book a test, visit gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test and select ‘my local council or health protection team has asked me to get a test, even though I do not have symptoms‘ or call 119.

Anyone who is eligible and has not yet received their first vaccination should book in using the national booking portal nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/coronavirus-vaccination/book-coronavirus-vaccination/.