Army manning coronavirus testing centre at Harrogate car park

NHS staff and other front-line workers are today being tested at The Hydro car park on an appointment-only basis.

The launch of the temporary centre is part of the government's effort to test thousands more staff following criticism the process has been too slow.

Army personnel are collecting swabs at the Jenny Field Drive site before they are sent to labs for processing, with results provided within 48 hours.

One of Harrogate's rubbish tips will reopen tomorrow - but others will stay shut

The antigen test only tests if you currently have the virus. It involves taking a swab of the inside of the nose and the back of the throat, using a long cotton bud.

The only people who can apply for a test are those with coronavirus symptoms who are either an essential worker, over 65 or cannot work from home.

People who have symptoms and live with people in any of those categories can also apply.

Spaces are limited and front-line workers are being prioritised.

Another testing unit has been set up at Poppleton park and ride near York, along with a site at Temple Green in Leeds.

To book a test, visit www.gov.uk/apply-coronavirus-test

By Jacob Webster, Local Democracy Reporter

A message from the Editor

Thank you for reading this story on our website. While I have your attention, I also have an important request to make of you.

In order for us to continue to provide high quality and trusted local news on this free-to-read site, I am asking you to also please purchase a copy of our newspaper.

Our journalists are highly trained and our content is independently regulated by IPSO to some of the most rigorous standards in the world. But being your eyes and ears comes at a price. So we need your support more than ever to buy our newspapers during this crisis.

With the coronavirus lockdown having a major impact on many of our local valued advertisers - and consequently the advertising that we receive - we are more reliant than ever on you helping us to provide you with news and information by buying a copy of our newspaper.

Thank you