Surge testing has launched in Merton in a bid to combat an outbreak of Covid-19 infections linked to the highly infectious Delta variant of the virus.

On Friday (June 11), Merton Council announced that they are stepping up targeted surge testing in an industrial estate in New Malden and a small area of Figges Marsh - where there have been recent outbreaks. 

In a newsletter sent to residents, Merton Council confirmed that in the week ending from June 4, there has been 100 new cases in the last seven days. 

In a breakdown of the cases, the council said that there has been 48 cases per 100,000 in the last seven days. 

In a video shared online, Leader of Merton Council Mark Allison, addressed the rapid rise in cases. 

"Cases of Covid-19 have more than doubled in Merton across the last two week," he said. 

"In particular, we have seen sharp rises in the Mitcham area in the East of the borough. 

"It has never been more important to test regularly or to get your Covid-19 jab."

It has been confirmed that those that need to take part in the targeted testing programme will be contacted directly. No additional restrictions are in place.  

Merton residents, over the age of 25, can also attend the following pop-up vaccine centres from this weekend: 

- Saturday ( June 12) -St Mark's Church in Mitcham -CR4 2LG - between 2pm - 7pm

- Monday ( June 14) - South Mitcham Community Centre - CR4 3PR- between 6pm -10pm

Council authorities are also urging everyone to take a lateral flow test twice a week for those who have no symptoms. 

To find out more information on how to get a lateral flow test visit here.