Darlington Football Club supports community testing scheme

Darlington Football Club has shown its support of the town’s community testing scheme by getting asymptomatic tests ahead of training.

The team, including Omar Holness, Theo Hudson and Tony McMahon visited the Dolphin Centre community testing site to get tested for Covid-19 and make sure they are not spreading the virus without realising.

Up to one in three people who have COVID do not show any symptoms, which means they could be spreading it to others even if they feel fit and healthy.

By taking community tests, the team could be confident that they are taking every step to make sure training and playing is as safe as possible.

David Johnston, CEO at Darlington Football Club, said: “I would like to say a huge thank you to the team at Darlington Borough Council, who have offered Darlington Football Club support in accessing Lateral Flow Testing at the community testing site at the Dolphin Centre. 

“Without the support and flexibility with timings provided the players and staff would not have been able to access this important testing and we are very grateful for everyone’s efforts in making it happen.”

Councillor Kevin Nicholson, Cabinet member for Health & Housing, said: “It’s fantastic to see Darlington Football Club supporting our community testing scheme.

“Going to a football match has been something many of us have missed in Darlington. By getting regular community tests, it helps to slow transmission and reduces our infection rates.”

“I would encourage everyone to play their part and to get tested regularly, which is helping keep Darlington on the right track.”

Tests are free and appointments must be booked in advance at www.darlington.gov.uk/testing/.

The testing facilities are only for people who don’t have Covid-19 symptoms. These include: a new continuous cough, high temperature or change to your sense of taste or smell.

Public health officials recommend getting tested twice weekly, especially if you cannot work from home or leave the house regularly for essential reasons such as essential shopping for vulnerable neighbours and childcare arrangements.

People must continue to follow the hands, face, space guidelines and the national rules on mixing with others even after a negative test result.