The Department of Health has apologised after the website set up for key workers to book Covid-19 tests stopped accepting applications due to high demand.

Health secretary Matt Hancock announced last night that all key workers and their households can book a test online if they have coronavirus symptoms.

But by mid-morning today, the part of the gov.uk website set up for key workers to book tests was not accepting new applications.

Read more: How to book a coronavirus test if you are a key worker - and who qualifies as one

Borehamwood Times:

The coronavirus test involves taking a swab of the nose and the back of the throat. Photo: Jacob King/PA Wire

The website, which enables people to book tests at a drive through centre or register for a home test, said: "Coronavirus test: applications closed. You can't currently register for a Covid-19 test. Please check back here later."

The Department of Health tweeted: "There has been significant demand for booking tests today.

"We apologise for any inconvenience. We are continuing to rapidly increase availability. More tests will be available tomorrow."

New drive-through testing centres have opened across the UK as the Government aims to carry out 100,000 tests a day by the end of the month.

One of those testing centres for hospital workers and their households opened at Watford General Hospital on Wednesday. Another drive-through facility for NHS workers has also opened at Lee Valley Athletics Centre in Edmonton.