People Urged To Have COVID-19 Test After Silverdale Outbreak

People in Silverdale who visited nine venues linked to a COVID-19 outbreak, are being urged to get tested over the Bank Holiday weekend, after the number of confirmed cases rises to 14.

All the cases, which are linked to an outbreak at Silverdale Working Men’s Club on August 16, are self-isolating and their contacts are being traced.

People should try to book a test online at www.nhs.uk/coronavirus  or by phoning 119, but can also turn up without an appointment at the Mobile Testing Unit in Knutton or the walk-through centre in Newcastle. 

Only people who visited the following venues on the dates listed need to get tested – even if they have no symptoms and feel well.

• Silverdale Working Men’s Club ­­– August 16 to 21
• The Bush pub – 20 August to 22 August
• The Vine pub – 20 August to 22 August
• The George & Dragon pub – 20 August to 22 August
• Newcastle (King Street) Working Men’s Club – 22 August
• The Kiln  – 22 August
• Yates in Newcastle – 22 August
• The Roebuck pub – 23 August
• The Bilash restaurant – 24 August

Dr Richard Harling, Staffordshire County Council’s Director of Health and Care, said:

“Through our ongoing contact tracing we have identified that cases linked to this outbreak have visited a number of venues whilst infectious. We are advising everyone who was at one of these premises on the specified dates to get tested.

“Testing is important ,as it will help us identify people who need to self-isolate to reduce the further risk of infection.”

Testing is available at:

• A drive-in Mobile Testing Unit at the Old Recreation Centre in Knutton, ST5 6BX from 10:30am to 3:30pm on Saturday to Monday 31 August. Walk-through is also available
• A walk-through testing centre is open at the Ryecroft Car Park Newcastle ST5 2AA from 8am to 8pm
• People should book tests online if possible through the national portal at www.nhs.uk/coronavirus  or by phoning 119. Alternatively they can drop in without an appointment at the above, but should wear face coverings and bring ID.

The county council continues to work with Newcastle Borough Council and Public Health England to contain the virus and support local businesses.

All the venues visited by those who have tested, like all pubs and restaurants, have carried out COVID-19 risk assessments and can continue to open and welcome customers with measures in place.

Dr Johnny McMahon, Staffordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, Care and Wellbeing, said:

“All of these venues were following the guidance, so it demonstrates just how contagious COVID-19 is and how easily it can be spread.

“People can, and should, continue to support their local pubs and restaurants – but everyone also needs to take personal responsibility to follow the rules.”

This means:

• Washing your hands regularly with soap and hot water
• Covering your face on public transport and in shops
• Making space, at least 2m, if you do need to go out
• If you are eating or drinking out, leave your contact details
• Stay home for 10 days and book a test if you have symptoms
• Follow the advice of the Test and Trace service if contacted