Pendle News Room

The support will improve access to testing and vaccination sites to try and stop the virus from spreading and local restrictions being imposed.

Councillor Nadeem Ahmed, Leader of Pendle Council, said: “We’re seeing a rise in cases across Pendle, including the new Delta variant which is proving to spread rapidly.

“It’s so important that everyone does what they can to reduce the spread of the virus by getting tested, with or without symptoms, and getting vaccinated.

“It’s also as important as ever to remember to wash your hands, wear a face mask in enclosed spaces and keep two metres apart from people you don’t live with.

“Please be cautious and think about minimising travel where possible and try to meet outside not inside.”

People aged 18 and over in Pendle, subject to eligibility, are being urged to get vaccinated and mobile vaccination sites have opened to give people their first dose of the Pfizer vaccine.

Councillor Ahmed added: “As cases continue to rise in Pendle and the infection rate increases, it’s absolutely vital that people come and get vaccinated to protect themselves and keep Pendle safe.

“The vaccination sites are only here for a few more days so please don’t delay – get your vaccination whilst you can!

“You can book an appointment or just turn up.”

Mobile units are at:

• Morrisons Car Park, Pendle Street, Nelson BB9 7TX, 8am-8pm, until Friday 11 June
• TK Maxx North Valley Road, Colne BB8 9DJ, 8am – 8pm, until Sunday 13 June
• Co-op Car park, Barnoldswick, 10am – 4pm, Saturday 12 June (ONE DAY ONLY)

Details about vaccination sites in Pendle are on Pendle Council’s website www.pendle.gov.uk/covidvaccination

Councillor Ahmed stressed: “If you are unsure whether you are eligible, pop down and have a chat with the team.

“We’re keen to get as many people vaccinated as possible, so please roll up!”

Everyone in Lancashire, including children, are now being strongly encouraged to take a Covid-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test, whether they are showing symptoms or not.

By using PCR testing, positive results can be sent for genomic sequencing at specialist laboratories, helping to identify variant of concern (VOC) cases and their spread.

Dr Sakthi Karunanithi, Director of Public Health for Lancashire County Council, said:

"The Government has listened to our calls and has now agreed to provide Lancashire with enhanced support, which gives us more flexibility to fight this new wave of infections.

"As such, asymptomatic PCR testing will be opened up to everyone in Lancashire.

"Improving vaccination uptake is also going to be a crucial element in our efforts to contain this latest wave.

"As well as securing first doses for those who have not had one, it is also vital that we get people fully vaccinated with two doses, as this will offer maximum protection against the Delta variant.

"Anyone who is over 18, subject to eligibility, can book their jab now and over the coming weeks we will be offering the vaccine in more convenient locations.”

Residents are encouraged to continue to make use of free twice-weekly rapid tests, commonly known as lateral flow devices, alongside the PCR test as part of surge testing.

For latest rules and stay safe advice including information on vaccinations and the ages who can now come forward to book, visit www.pendle.gov.uk/covidvaccination