Pictures show new mobile Weston-super-Mare coronavirus testing centre empty on its second day

The Covid-19 testing unit at Locking Road car park is expected to be there for several days

Pictures taken at Weston-super-Mare's temporary mobile coronavirus testing unit show it was empty hours into its second day.

The centre, operated by military personnel and available for pre-booked tests only, launched yesterday (May 26) at Locking Road car park.

But photos from 12pm today show the site deserted, bar a lone worker sitting under the shade of a red tarpaulin.

A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: “127 people were booked into the Locking Road car park testing centre for a test yesterday, and we continue to take bookings today.

"North Somerset Council issued notices yesterday and today giving details of who is eligible and how to make an appointment.

“Testing is a crucial part of tackling this virus and we encourage everyone if they are eligible and need a test to book one online.”

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The department did not have the figures for today's bookings.

North Somerset Council say the centre is likely to be in the car park for several days, which will not be available for public parking during this time.

The unit will operate from 10am until 4pm each day and appointments can be made through the Government website or by calling 119.

Mobile testing units have an integrated one-way system which allows those with an appointment to attend for either walk-in or drive through testing.

Essential workers will be given priority at the testing unit, the council has also confirmed.

The eligibility criteria for tests has been extended to include:

• anyone aged five-years-old and over with symptoms
• any essential worker with symptoms
• members of the household of essential workers who are symptomatic

Coronavirus cases in North Somerset have jumped by 13, to 427, in today's (May 27) update – continuing a sharp rise throughout this month which dwarfs any increase in surrounding areas.

AndWeston General Hospital has closed to new patients following a spike in cases.