While restrictions have eased and we are now able to do more of the things we love, it is still important to remember that Covid-19 hasn’t gone away.

Even if you don’t have Covid-19 symptoms, it is still important to get tested regularly, and it’s even easier to get a rapid coronavirus test.

Residents can do so at one of the test sites, by collecting a test kit from participating community pharmacies or by requesting a test kit to be sent to their home.

Ayrshire residents who don’t have any of the three Covid-19 symptoms (a new continuous cough, high temperature, loss or change in sense of taste or smell) are encouraged to get tested.

READ MORE: Drop-in vaccine clinics available for those aged 16 and over - here's where and when

Lynne McNiven, Director of Public Health for NHS Ayrshire & Arran, explains: “Testing helps us to identify more cases of the virus and give us all a better chance of stopping it from spreading.

“Even those who are fully vaccinated should get tested regularly – this means twice a week. If you are a key worker and must attend work, it is even more important to get tested regularly.

“It is really important if you are visiting a loved one in hospital or a care home, or if you are travelling to a Scottish island.

“And remember, with the schools going back, it is important that we identify any cases in schools or early years centres as quickly as possible. So, if you work in education, or are a secondary school pupil, make sure you get tested twice a week.”

There are Asymptomatic Test Sites (ATS) in East, North and South Ayrshire. These sites are available seven days a week from 10am to 6pm, and there is no need to book.

East Ayrshire

From Friday, August 13 until Thursday, August 26: 

Hurlford Community Centre, Cessnock Road, Hurlford

North Ayrshire

From Thursday, August 5 unti Wednesday, August 18: 

Unit 24, Bridgegate, Irvine

From Thursday, August 19 until Wednesday, September 1: 

Brisbane Centre, Bath Street, Largs 

South Ayrshire

From Monday, July 26 until sunday, August 15: 

Maybole Town Hall. High Street, Maybole

From Monday, August 16 until sunday, August 22: 

Troon Concert Hall, Municipal Buildings, South Beach, Troon 

These sites are only for people without symptoms. Anyone with COVID-19 symptoms, or anyone who has been identified as a close contact, should book a test in the usual way via nhsinform.scot or by calling 0800 028 2816.