A second Mobile Testing Unit will be in operation today after more than 1,300 people were tested at Needham Market over the weekend.

The testing centre in the car park of the former Mid Suffolk council HQ continues until Saturday, May 29, but appointments are no longer necessary and people can just turn up. This is due to the numbers stabilising and capacity on site to be able to manage this.

The surge testing came into effect after it was confirmed a Covid outbreak at Wattisham Flying Station and neighbouring Needham Market.

Stuart Keeble, Director of Public Health at Suffolk County Council, said: "We have seen around 1,300 people tested over the weekend, which is a great response from the Needham Market community and I thank everyone who is coming forward. I understand that people are also ordering PCR test kits to do at home, with their children, which is encouraging to hear.

"I'm pleased to say that from Monday you will no longer need to book an appointment and you may simply turn up at the Needham Market mobile testing unit for your PCR test. This will be helpful for people who were unable to book online, or who work in the town during the week.

"If you are local to, or work in Needham Market, please visit the site this week for your PCR test and help us to understand if the virus is spreading. I continue to ask everyone in Suffolk to follow national guidance: hands, face, space, open windows at home if you have visitors, and go for your first or second vaccination appointment when it is offered to you."

Nub news reported on Friday about the Wattisham outbreak and surge testing facility - full story here...