Ceredigion MP Ben Lake has raised concerns over difficulties people are facing when trying to book a Covid-19 test.

Speaking to the Cambrian News, Mr Lake said: "Over the last few weeks, many constituents have shared the difficulties they have faced when attempting to obtain Covid-19 tests locally, with some being directed as far away as Birmingham to secure a test.

“I have serious concerns about the current capacity constraints with the UK-wide testing system, which I raised this with the UK Health Secretary Matt Hancock MP in the House of Commons last week.

“Recent evidence suggests that we are poised perilously on the brink of a second wave of Covid-19.

“The onset of autumn was always identified as a challenging time in our efforts to combat the spread of Covid-19, not least as it heralds the onset of the flu season and the fact that colder weather means that there will be a greater temptation to meet with others indoors as opposed to meeting outside.

“If we do not implement a robust and effective testing system with capacity to process tests locally – and quickly – then it seems inevitable that further measures will have to be considered if we are to keep the virus under control during the winter months."

Hywel Dda University Health Board has said that whilst there are some problems across the UK in the booking of local Covid-19 tests, it is assuring people that local tests are being carried out in all three counties.

The health board says it is aware of difficulties reported by local people in accessing tests via the UK Booking Portal and 119 bilingual telephone service. This, it says, is due to an increase in demand for Covid-19 tests across the UK.

Director of therapies and health science for Hywel Dda Health Board, Alison Shakeshaft said: “Please be assured that we do have local testing capacity within Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire and we are speaking with partners to support resolution of the booking issues. Local people should not need to travel excessive distances to access a test.”

Tests are available via appointment only to members of the public at Carmarthen Showground, Canolfan Rheidol in Aberystwyth and Pembrokeshire Archives in Haverfordwest. These are drive-through sites, please do not turn up on site on foot or without an appointment as you will be turned away.

Hywel Dda Health Board also has several venues for the testing of patients coming into hospital or undergoing certain treatments, across the three counties. These venues are not publicly announced as they are for a target audience, by direct appointment, and are subject to different opening times and to change.

Alison said: “Thank you to our communities for working with us to Keep Hywel Dda Safe.”