Maldon MP John Whittingdale visited a medical centre in the wake of coronavirus concerns.

Mr Whittingdale went to the new Crouch Vale Medical Centre in South Woodham Ferrers to meet members of Provide, which supplies community health and social care across Essex.

Mr Whittingdale was given a tour of the new centre which houses GP practices Brickfield Surgery, Kingsway Surgery and Greenwood Surgery.

He was also briefed on the preparations for dealing with suspected cases of coronavirus as Provide will be offering the home swabbing service for Mid Essex.

Mr Whittingdale said: “I urge everyone to take precautions particularly by regular hand-washing for at least 20 seconds.

“If you are concerned that you may be suffering from coronavirus or displaying symptoms, you should remain in your own home and call the NHS Helpline 111.

“Provide will visit you in your home to take swabs which will be sent to Broomfield or Cambridge laboratories for analysis.”