The local testing sites are preparing to close in the borough at the end of the month.

In line with Government plans to end free-universal testing for COVID-19, testing sites across the borough of Richmond have begun their preparations to close at the end of March.

Within Richmond upon Thames, the testing sites at Bramble Lane in Hampton and Old Deer Park MTU in Richmond will also close on March 26 and 30.

St Mary's University, Broom Road, sports campus in Teddington will also close its testing site on Wednesday March 30.

Last month the Government announced changes to legislation and policy outlining how we will 'live with COVID' in the future.

From April 1 the government will no longer provide free universal symptomatic and asymptomatic testing for the general public in England.

The above sites will be closed for both pre-booked and walk-in appointments.

Over the next few months the centres will be dismantled and removed, as part of a wider programme across England.

Residents have also been reminded that there are limited stocks of free Lateral Flow Tests.

Local pharmacies and East Sheen, Hampton, Twickenham and Whitton libraries will also only have Lateral Flow Tests available until March 31.

Cllr Gareth Roberts, Leader of Richmond Council, has reminded people that despite this, COVID-19 is still very much with us. He said:

"I am concerned that free-universal testing will cease at the end of March. COVID-19 rates have been increasing across Richmond over the past few weeks since the compulsory measures were removed.

"Whilst we know there will be a paid-for testing service post March, we are still waiting for official guidance as to where people will be able to buy them from and the reassurance that those people who are struggling financially will still be able to access testing.

"One thing is really clear – COVID-19 has not gone away. We all need to continue to take appropriate measures to keep ourselves and our communities safe such as wearing a face covering when in an enclosed space or on public transport, washing our hands regularly, and opening a window to enable ventilation if meeting with others indoors.

"I want to reassure residents that we have not forgotten about COVID-19. Should there be a need for us to step up our efforts and support due to major outbreaks, steep increase in case numbers or hospitalisations in the future, we have plans in place to ensure we are ready to do so."