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Army staffs drive-through coronavirus testing centre in Walsall

This was the scene in Walsall where a drive-through coronavirus testing centre was set-up by the British Army.

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A driver being tested at the site

It was one of several temporary sites which were operating around the Midlands to test key workers for coronavirus.

Last week, it was announced the military would be drafted in to help roll-out more testing.

It comes after Health secretary Matt Hancock promised the UK would be able to test 100,000 people a day by the end of April.

More Covid-19 coverage:

The mobile unit was set-up at Blakenall Village Centre, Blakenall, Walsall. Drivers were seen queueing around the block to get tested.

Cars were seen queueing around the block
Cars were seen queueing around the block

Specially trained army staff were kitted with face masks, gloves and aprons, and speaking to drivers through their windows.

Each driver was swab tested and their samples were sent to laboratories.

The mobile unit reportedly take less than 20 minutes to set-up and allow hundreds of people to be tested each day.

An army staff member directing patients

An Army spokesperson said: "The armed forces are currently supporting the department for health and social care in delivering coronavirus testing.

"Any essential worker or members of their family who display symptoms can now be tested.

"Testing has also been expanded to include anyone symptomatic over 65, or members of their household.

"Search ‘book a coronavirus test’ online for details of how to book and a full list of those eligible to be tested."

Testing also took place at: Staffordshire University, based on Blackheath Lane, Stafford; Birmingham NEC's car park; Merton Meadow car park, Hereford; Newbold Road car park, Rugby; and Stratford Park and Ride, Stratford-upon-Avon.

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