Wakefield councillor Nick Farmer praises booking system after testing positive for coronavirus

A Wakefield councillor has confirmed he's tested positive for coronavirus.
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Conservative Nick Farmer, who represents the district's Ossett ward, told a full council meeting he was self isolating after being informed of the news on Tuesday.

He said he'd booked a test at a drive-thru centre in Featherstone after losing his taste and smell, which is one of the symptoms of Covid.

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The testing system has been ravaged by capacity issues both locally and nationally in recent weeks, with many people reporting difficulties in booking one, or being sent to a test centre miles from their home.

The coronavirus testing system has been hit by serious capacity issues in recent weeks.The coronavirus testing system has been hit by serious capacity issues in recent weeks.
The coronavirus testing system has been hit by serious capacity issues in recent weeks.

But Coun Farmer said his experience of the system had been smooth and "quick" and said local people should be able to book a test with confidence.

Speaking on a virtual full council meeting on Wednesday, Coun Farmer said: "I'd like to pass on my thanks to the people who tested me in Featherstone on Monday.

"I was quickly in and quickly out. I got my test in a very short period of time.

"I got the results within 20 hours, the next day.

Councillor Farmer said people in Wakefield should not be afraid to book a test.Councillor Farmer said people in Wakefield should not be afraid to book a test.
Councillor Farmer said people in Wakefield should not be afraid to book a test.
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"My message to the people of Wakefield is don't be afraid to go if you've got symptoms. It was quick and easy.

"Hopefully my symptoms will go in the near future."

In response The mayor of Wakefield and meeting chair, Charlie Keith, said he wished Coun Farmer well in his recovery and said it was "reassuring" to know he was able to book a test.

Public Health continues to advise that only those displaying Covid symptoms should book a test.

Local Democracy Reporting Service