Council chiefs have responded to reports of shortages of Covid lateral flow tests by making clear supplies are still available from many of the area's libraries.

The emergence of the Omicron strain of the virus has triggered a rise in demand for the tests and long queues for booster vaccinations.

There are reports from across the country of pharmacies and others running short on the lateral flow tests.

However, the council said they are available at the following locations:

• East Sheen Library, SW14 8LP

• Hampton Library, TW12 2AB

• Twickenham Library, TW1 3JT

• Whitton Library, TW2 7BB

Details of new walk-in vaccination clinics are expected to be revealed this week. According to Healthwatch Richmond a walk-in clinic for 16+ Pfizer vaccinations has already been opened at West Middlesex Hospital.

The site – a portacabin at Percy House, Twickenham Rd, TW7 6AF – operates 8.30am-6.30pm until Friday this week; and from 8.30am-3.30pm on both Saturday and Sunday.

It is also possible to make a booking here.