JOHNSTONE today finds itself at the centre of the battle against Covid-19 as mass testing of the town’s residents gets underway.
Up to 12,000 people will be checked for the deadly virus over the next week, with 100 council staff running a temporary clinic at Johnstone Town Hall.
It is the only fixed site in Scotland’s current mass testing pilot project.
There is no need to book in advance for an appointment at the Johnstone Town Hall testing centre.
It is open to anyone over the age of five who either lives, works or goes to school in Johnstone, although under-12s must be accompanied by a parent.
Only those who are asymptomatic (not displaying symptoms of Covid-19) should attend.
Do not visit the centre if you have symptoms of Covid, have tested positive for the virus in the last 90 days, were on the shielding list or are currently self-isolating because you have been identified as a close contact.
Limited parking is available at the town hall throughout the next week but there is other parking available in the town centre.
Those who have to use public transport to make their way to the town hall for a test are advised that they should wear a face covering during their journey.
You should take your mobile phone with you, as your results will be returned by text message a short time after you have taken the test, and a face covering is needed, as you will have to wear this indoors.
Alternative arrangements are in place for those who do not have a mobile phone.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here