Boots UK is one of several organisations taking part in a pilot to assess whether Covid-19 testing is effective for asymptomatic individuals working in jobs where socially distancing can be difficult to maintain.

The swab testing pilot, which will be managed by local authorities, Government and the companies Mitie, Addison Lee, BT and Boots, will target cleaners, taxi drivers and shop workers as well as pharmacy staff.

Boots UK pharmacy director Richard Bradley commented: “Once again, our amazing colleagues are demonstrating their unfailing commitment to the NHS and are volunteering to be tested when asymptomatic to help the DHSC learn more about Covid-19, and to further protect themselves, their families, colleagues and customers.”

NHS Test and Trace executive chair Dido Harding said: “We are committed to continually improving NHS Test and Trace to reach more people at risk of passing the virus on as quickly as possible.

“I continue to applaud all those who have played their part, got a test after experiencing symptoms and responded to the service.

 “I urge anyone contacted by NHS Test and Trace to follow the advice they receive to protect their families and communities.”