JAKE Buxton’s squad were back at the Pirelli Stadium yesterday to receive COVID-19 tests from the NHS.
The Brewers players arrived on a scattered basis to check the squad is coronavirus free as a precautionary measure. With the players now doing light individual training, Buxton was happy to get his players tested in readiness for full training ahead of the new season.
The manager is also encouraging local people to test and trace following a rise in recent positive cases in and around the town. He said: “We’re very grateful to the NHS for testing our players and staff.
“We’re urging as many people as possible to get tested, no matter what cultural background they are from. It’s all about doing what’s best for each other and our community.”
Heather Johnstone, Director of Quality and Nursing for the Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent CCGs said: “We have had a wonderful working relationship with Burton Albion since we set up a local testing station at the stadium in April. The opportunity to offer testing to players and staff at the club felt like the least we could do given the level of support they have offered to the local NHS during the COVID-19 outbreak. Everything possible is being done to help prevent the further spread of infection.
“Testing and tracing will play a crucial part in this effort. Getting the test is quick and simple and is the best way to help protect yourself, your family and the wider of community in Burton.”
Chairman Ben Robinson MBE DL, said: “Burton Albion are delighted to continue supporting the NHS with the testing facility here at the Pirelli Stadium.
“It’s an important facility providing a crucial service to the community.
“We are also extremely appreciative of their support in carrying out testing on our players and backroom staff in readiness for their return to training.”
Dr Richard Harling, Staffordshire County Council’s Director of Health and Care, said: “We have seen an increase in cases in parts of Anglesey, Shobnall and Horninglow in particular and it is important for everyone in Burton to continue to follow the guidance and get tested if needs be.
“We need to act now to prevent any further spread of infections.
“I would like to thank Burton Albion and all our community partners across the town for playing their part and would encourage residents and businesses to pay their part over the coming days and weeks.”
You can get a test for:
- Yourself, if you have coronavirus symptoms now (a high temperature, a new, continuous cough, or a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste)
- Someone you live with, if they have coronavirus symptoms
- Yourself, if you have been told to have a test before you go into hospital, for example, for surgery
You can book a test online or you can call the coronavirus testing contact centre on 119.
For more information on Coronavirus/COVID-19 please follow official NHS guidance rather than social media.
MAIN IMAGE (L-R): Chris Beardsley, Colin Daniel, Jake Buxton, Ryan Edwards and Lucas Akins presented the testing nurses with two signed Burton Albion shirts.