The Isle of Wight's MP says the problems faced by Islanders trying to book a Covid-19 test are 'unacceptable' and he has written to Health Secretary, Matt Hancock, to urge him to take swift action.

Islanders have been struggling to access both home test kits and appointments at the Island’s drive-through testing facility, at Newclose Cricket Ground.

Bob Seely said he had received assurances from the Isle of Wight NHS Trust that the drive-through testing site had ample capacity and that some spaces are going unused.

Mr Seely said: “The problem is a national one and needs to be addressed urgently.

"Health bosses on the Island are working hard to assist Islanders but they can only work with the system the government has put in place. The situation Islanders are currently facing is unacceptable.

“I have written to the Health Secretary to explain that the issue is made all the more acute here due to the Island’s separation from the mainland because accessing other testing facilities – whether it’s Islanders travelling to the mainland or vice versa – involves the use of a ferry which is not only inconvenient and costly, but also increases the risk of transmission of the virus to others travelling on the ferries."

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Mr Seely said: “I’m sure Mr Hancock will share my concerns that the use of ferries to access tests contravenes clear government guidance about using public transport whilst seeking a Covid-19 test and I hope that he can reassure me that the problems with Covid-19 testing – both home test kits and access to drive-through sites will be addressed quickly.”

Mr Seely said the advice from health bosses on the Island is to keep trying to get an appointment on the Island.