A MAN who lost a relative to coronavirus is urging Globe readers to book a test if they show symptoms.

Shabil Syed made the plea ahead of the return of mobile testing unit to Birkenhead and West next week.

The appointment-only facility will be at West Kirby Concourse on Sunday offering tests to the general public who have made appointments.

On Monday and Tuesday, the unit will return to Europa Leisure Centre site in Birkenhead.

Shabil Syed (pictured, below) - who volunteer at Wirral Deen Centre in Birkenhead - said: “I would urge anyone who is experiencing symptoms to book a test straight away." 

Wirral Globe:

He added: "I lost my dad to Covid-19 earlier this year and know full well the devastation it can cause.

"It is still circulating in our community and has not gone away so please call 119 and book a test to keep our loved ones safe."

To view a short video from Shabil click here: https://youtu.be/_giYJqYi_fQ.

The mobile testing unit is in addition to Wirral’s satellite testing centre in Bidston which operates seven days a week.

Everyone over the age of five who is showing symptoms of coronavirus – a high temperature, a new continuous cough, or a loss of or change to their sense of smell or taste – is eligible to apply for a test.

For the latest information, visit www.wirral.gov.uk/test where you can also book a test at the Bidston satellite testing site.

Cllr Chris Jones, Wirral Council’s cabinet member for adult care, health and wellbeing, said: "I would like to thank Shabil for volunteering his time to help spread the word regarding testing and the vital role it plays in helping to keep our community safe.

"The protection of people’s health and well-being is our top priority and effective and accessible testing is a key part of that during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"By locating this mobile testing unit in areas where people normally visit or work, or close to major centres of population, we are ensuring those who need a test are able to access one whether it’s people who work or live in that area or have travelled there because it’s a convenient location for them.

"We have also taken all necessary steps to ensure that people in those areas are not put at any risk, keeping the mobile testing unit completely separate.

“Good local testing will help slow the spread of the coronavirus and allow people get the right advice for themselves their family and anyone they may have been in contact with and help limit the spread of the disease.

"As restrictions continue to ease and people start to feel more normality coming back into their lives, it’s vital that those who are eligible for a test, get tested to help Keep Wirral Well.”

The mobile testing site is walk in or drive through and will provide an additional 400 ‘self-swab' tests per day.

Residents who meet the above criteria can apply for a test through the NHS website or the Gov.uk website, and select the Wirral site as an option via the booking process. Instructions on how to take the test and how and when individuals will receive their results will be provided when they take their test.