Residents are being reminded rapid Covid-19 testing is still available across Cheshire West with lateral flow tests in short supply.

Across the country, supplies of home testing kits are currently limited.

But those without symptoms can still access on-site Covid testing at Cheshire West and Chester Council's testing centres and mobile units.

One of the testing centres can be found at the Dingle Centre in Winsford, while the other is at Stanney Oaks Leisure Centre in Ellesmere Port.

Both are open Monday to Friday between 9am and 3pm.

If residents can’t make it to these centres, they can also visit pop-up units in the area which change location each week to ensure all residents have testing availability.

And from January 11, following a temporary change in the national testing policy, anyone who who tests positive using a lateral flow test must self-isolate straight away, without the need for getting confirmation from a PCR test.

Cllr Louise Gittins, leader of Cheshire West and Chester Council, said: "We are seeing the highest Covid-19 infection rates we have ever seen in the borough, as we are across the country.

"The numbers of people in hospital with Covid is much lower than this time last year, but there are 237 patients with Covid being treated in local hospitals, and this number is rising.

"I know it’s difficult to keep testing when it’s hard to get hold of home test kits, but please keep trying, use our centres and pop-up testing units and help make sure you’re not spreading Covid unknowingly – give yourself peace of mind, look after each other and help ease pressure on our NHS and care services.

"It’s also so important to get your vaccine as soon as you can, whether you’re eligible for your first, second or booster dose.

"The difference in the numbers of people in hospital with the virus this year compared to last year really highlights the incredible impact the vaccination programme has had."

Anyone with symptoms of the virus, including a new continuous cough, high temperature and loss or change in their sense of smell or taste, should self-isolate immediately and take a different type of test, a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test, which is processed at a laboratory.

For more information about Covid testing in Cheshire West and Chester visit: cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/c19testing