'Surge testing' is taking place in Worcester this weekend after the South African variant of Covid was found in the city.

People over the age of 18, who are living or working in the WR3 area of Worcester are strongly encouraged to take a Covid-19 test this week, even if they are not showing symptoms.

A statement on the Worcestershire County Council's website said: "All cases are now self-isolating, and robust contact tracing has taken place to trace their contacts and ask them to self-isolate.

"Working in partnership with NHS Test and Trace, every person living in the affected area over the age of 18 is strongly encouraged to take a PCR Covid-19 test as soon as possible, even if they are not showing symptoms."

The council says there is currently no evidence to suggest this variant is more serious than others, or that the regulated vaccine would not protect against it.

It says those who live within walking distance of the White Hart in Droitwich Road, Fernhill Heath, can get a test between 8am and 4pm from today (Saturday).

More detail on how to arrange tests here.

All current cases are now self-isolating and "robust" contact tracing has taken place to trace their contacts and ask them to self-isolate, the council says.