A temporary PCR testing centre in Old Deer Park is now operating seven days a week in light of soaring COVID-19 infections.

The move comes against the background of reports that the highly infectious Omicron strain of coronavirus is now dominant in London

Appointments at Old Deep Park and other PCR test centres at Bramble Lane, Hampton, and Broom Road, Teddington, must be booked first.

They are available to those with symptoms, including high temperature, a new continuous cough, or a loss or change to sense of smell or taste.

PCR testing is also available for those who have tested positive via a lateral flow test, or have been asked to get a test, either by NHS Test and Trace if they're a close contact of a positive case, or a clinician or their local authority.

Tests can be booked on the new NHS Covid-19 app, online here or by calling 119.

Those being tested will be required to follow public health measures, including social distancing, not travelling by taxi or public transport, practicing good personal hygiene and wearing a face covering throughout, including while travelling to and from the testing centre.

Council leader, Cllr Gareth Roberts, said: "We know that with COVID-19 levels being so high in Richmond, and it being the final lead up to Christmas, there is huge demand on testing across the country.

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"We are working hard to ensure that there is enough locally, and these additional days will help with the pressure.

"Finding cases and asking these people to self-isolate is key to breaking the chain of transmission, so we can keep Richmond upon Thames safe.

"It remains vital that anyone with COVID-19 symptoms gets tested."

Separately, there is high demand for lateral flow tests, with people keen to test before seeing friends and family at Christmas.

The Council is trying to ensure that East Sheen, Hampton, Twickenham and Whitton libraries have tests for people to come and collect, however demand is high.