Richmond Council is rolling out rapid coronavirus tests to three wards with the highest infection rates from today (December 15).

Residents living in Heathfield, Hampton North and West Twickenham wards are being invited to apply for an asymptomatic Covid-19 test, for people not experiencing symptoms, as part of the council's strategy to identify more positive cases and reduce the spread of infection.

These wards are currently seeing the highest rates of positive cases of coronavirus in the borough.

Residents in these wards over the age of 18, can go online and book a test from today, to take at York House in Twickenham.

Tests are administered by yourself in the presence of a trained supervisor.

Read more: Rapid 'lateral flow' tests to identify asymptomatic Richmond residents

Leader of the council Cllr Gareth Roberts said: "These rapid tests will enable people to get tested and be sure that at that particular moment they are covid-free. Those positive can take immediate action and self-isolate – reducing the impact on the wider community.

"Rolling out this kind of testing is a huge exercise. Unlike other boroughs, we do not have support from the army or other agencies. So, we have to be strategic. We are therefore focusing on those wards that have the highest number of cases.

"I ask those people wanting this test in other parts of the borough to be patient. We will expand the programme in the New Year."

Richmond is one of a number of local authorities who signed up for the roll out of the rapid turnaround, lateral flow tests – which can give results in under an hour, without the need for laboratory processing.

This in addition to the symptomatic testing, that is already available for those displaying Covid-19 symptoms at three venues across the borough.

Initially, Richmond Council used the lateral flow tests for council staff who work with vulnerable adults and children.

However, as the virus continues to spread across London, the tests will now be made available to other local people.

The council says it is also exploring the expansion of testing to other local groups and organisations – including secondary schools, unpaid carers (via local organisations), respite care and day centre staff and clients.

This testing programme will be further expanded to other local wards in the coming weeks.

Residents will be advised when they can apply via the council's website, social media and e-newsletter.

Cllr Gareth Roberts added: "We now have confirmation that London is moving into Tier 3 from Wednesday. Whilst the number of positive cases in Richmond upon Thames is lower than in the rest of London – we are seeing an increase.

"It is incumbent on us all to be responsible for not just our own health – but the health of our families, friends, people we meet in the street, come across in the supermarket, and of course the staff in all the businesses who keep our borough moving."

If you do NOT have any Covid-19 symptoms and live in Heathfield, West Twickenham and Hampton North you can book a test by visiting the council's dedicated webpage. If you do not have access to the internet, call: 020 8891 1411

This testing is entirely voluntary. Booking is essential to reduce the spread of the virus through the community.

If you have symptoms

If you live in any ward in the borough and you have Covid-19 symptoms, which include a high temperature, new cough or loss of taste or smell, you must self-isolate immediately and book a free NHS test online here.

There is a testing centre at Twickenham Stadium, regular testing available at Old Deer Park in Richmond and an additional walk-in testing site at the St Mary's University Broom Road sports campus in Teddington.

When you book a test you will be given the option of a test centre based on nearest location to you and availability.

The council says testing sites are currently showing good availability.

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