RESIDENTS in Worcestershire are struggling to book a coronavirus test online - even if they are showing symptoms.

Those who try to book a test through the government's portal have been receiving messages that "more tests should be available later" and to "try again in a few hours".

There was no option to have a test at the Sixways station in Worcester, or to drive to another station in the local area.

Visitors to the online booking system are told: "Only get a test if you have coronavirus symptoms or have been asked to get tested. This will help make sure people who need a test can get one.

"If you have coronavirus symptoms, you need to get a test done as soon as possible. You need to get the test done in the first five days of having symptoms."

When a reporter at our sister paper the Worcester News visited Sixways Stadium this afternoon (September 9), said to be a testing site for the county, it appeared that testing was taking place, with two cars going through the cordon in under 30 minutes after stopping briefly.

A spokesman for Worcestershire County Council said: “We are aware that some residents are struggling to book a test for Covid in the local area.

"There are issues nationally with access to testing, and Worcestershire is having the same difficulties as other parts of the country. There is also a national issue in accessing home testing kits.

If you have Covid-19 symptoms and are unable to arrange a test, please don’t give up, keep trying, and in the meantime it is really important that you still self -isolate for 10 days from the first day of your symptoms.”

Have you had a problem booking a coronavirus test in Worcestershire? We want to hear from you. Email emily.collis@newsquest.co.uk.