Residents in Richmond borough, which has the highest Covid infection rates in London, are being offered same day results on reliable PCR tests.

The service will be available for the next two weeks for those who take a PCR test at the pop-up testing centre at Old Deer Park.

The PCR tests are mainly for people with symptoms - high temperature, a new, continuous cough, a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste – or a positive result from a lateral flow test.

You can also get a PCR test if you have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19.

Under the rules, people are required to stay at home until they get the results of the test, which can take up to three days.

Access to a swift results service will help people who are given the all-clear to get back to normal life.

This will be particularly useful to pupils and teachers in the borough's schools, which have been badly disrupted by absences caused the need for self-isolation.

London has only 3-5 mobile processing units at present and Richmond Council has been chosen to host these pop-up events.

Council leader, Cllr Gareth Roberts, said: "Our case rate is still very high, showing us that COVID-19 is still an unwanted guest in our borough. One of the ways we can curb the spread is to get tested and isolate.

"For those who have had a positive lateral flow test or are displaying symptoms, it is important that you isolate straight away and book an urgent PCR test.

"Having a processing unit at the Old Deer Park testing centre, will mean tests won't need to be taken off site and people will have their results on the same day."

Residents are reminded that the service is for pre-booked appointments only, but tests can be booked up to 24 hours in advance. Please only book an appointment if you have any COVID-19 symptoms or have a positive lateral flow test.

If you wish to register for an appointment as a member of the public or essential worker, you can do so here and here.