Indian Covid variant: Surge testing begins in Bedford

Surge testing has begun in Bedford in an attempt to control the spread of the Indian variant of coronavirus.

The town has the third highest Covid rate in the country with 128 cases per 100,000 people. Experts say it's being made worse by the spread of the more transmissable Indian Variant.

People living in the Kingsbrook, Cauldwell and Queens Park areas of Bedford and the village of Wixams are being encouraged to take a PCR COVID-19 test- even if they are not showing symptoms.

Surge testing being carried out in the county Credit: ITV News Anglia

In this first phase of surge testing in Bedford , Mobile Testing Units will be operating until Friday 28 May every day at the following sites and times:

  • Oasis Beach Pool, Cardington Road, Kingsbrook, Bedford, MK42 0BZ (8am to 6pm)

  • John Bunyan Sports and Fitness, Mile Road, Cauldwell, Bedford, MK42 9TS (8am to 6pm)

  • Enterprise House, Old Ford End Road, Queens Park, Bedford, MK40 4PF (8am to 5pm)

  • Seasons Garden Centre, Bedford Road, Wixams, MK45 3HU (8.30am to 6pm)

The mobile testing units accept people in cars and on foot, and no appointment is necessary.

Further collect and drop off points for tests will be available in each of the areas from Friday at London Road Surgery, Cauldwell Community Centre on Althorpe Street, Queens Park Community Centre and Lakeview Village Hall at the Wixams and these will be open from 8am-6pm.

Surge testing begins in Bedford to control the spread of coronavirus Credit: PA Images

Mayor Dave Hodgson, Bedford Borough Council said “The figures we are seeing locally are really concerning, with cases thought to be doubling approximately every five days in Bedford Borough. I am glad that the Government has agreed to roll out this surge testing. This testing across these four areas will help us to identify cases, trace how the virus is travelling through our communities, and help slow the spread.

“We are hoping for as many people as possible to be tested in this first week of surge testing, so please, if you live in Kingsbrook, Cauldwell, Queens Park or the Wixams, come forward for a PCR test and help to keep your community safe.”