North East lockdown: full list of coronavirus test centres - and how to book

Demand for coronavirus tests is on the rise in the UK following the arrival of a second wave of the disease, with government Chief Medical Officer Professor Chris Whitty warning of a "very challenging winter period.”

The North East was issued with new social distancing restrictions last week as the prevalence of the virus in the region increased.

There has been some concern over availability of testing, however, with many claiming that they are unable to book a test in their area.

People in need of tests are being asked to be patient by the government, with a notice on the government website reading, “If you cannot book a test now, or the location or time are not convenient, try again in a few hours."

Where are test centres in the North East?

There are four types of testing sites in place across the UK.

These are: Regional Test Sites (RTSs), Satellite Test Sites (STSs), Mobile Testing Units (MTUs) and Local Testing Sites (LTSs)

Regional and Local Test Sites

Across the UK there are 50 Regional Test Sites set up by the Department of Health and Social Care where members of the public can get a swab test via drive-through or walk-in.

There are four sites in the North East:

- Newcastle Great Park & Ride

- Sainsbury's Development Site, Middlesborough

- Etherley Road Car Park, Newcastle

- Newcastle General Hospital

Satellite Test Sites

There are 33 sites across the UK set up for NHS staff. These are located near to hospitals that have a particularly urgent or significant need.

The nearest of these to the North East is in Scarborough.

Mobile Testing Units

Mobile testing units travel around the UK to increase access to coronavirus testing.

They respond to need, travelling to test essential workers at sites including care homes, police stations and prisons.

- Morpeth (Merley Croft)

- North Shields

- Consett Football Club

- Gateshead (Regent's Court Car Park)

- Howlands Farm, Teesside

- Shildon Railway Museum

- Temple Park, Teesside

- Darlington Arena

How do I arrange a test?

You can apply for a test online.

You will be asked:

- how you want to get the test – at a drive-through or walk-through test site or by ordering a home test kit

- for details such as your name, mobile phone number and address

You may be able to get priority tests on Gov.uk if you:

- are an essential worker, including NHS or social care staff

- are asking for tests for the residents and staff of your care home

- have a verification code from your employer​