TESTING for people with coronavirus symptoms is now available at two local fire stations.

The sites were not expected to be ready until mid March, however, according to Argyll and Bute Council, as of Wednesday, February 24, Cove and Arrochar fire stations began operating as temporary Covid-19 testing sites.

Testing is being carried out at the Cove station, but Arrochar is operating as a "pick-up only" facility, where test kits can be collected and returned for courier collection.

The Scottish Government confirmed plans earlier this month to expand testing in more rural areas, in partnership with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS), following successful trials in Thurso and Lochgilphead.

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The sites are only for people with Covid symptoms and can only be used by people who have booked a test by calling NHS Highland on 01463 706015.

If people drive to the Cove site they can take the test themselves on-site and leave it for collection by a courier that day.

Alternatively people can also collect a test kit for someone else and bring it back for courier collection.

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