Ricky Tomlinson has revealed that his brother has died from Covid

Ricky Tomlinson has urged people in Liverpool to get tested for coronavirus duding the mass testing scheme which is taking place across the city.

The Royle Family star Ricky Tomlinson has revealed one of his brothers died from coronavirus as he urged people to take part in a mass testing pilot in Liverpool.

In a video message posted on the Liverpool City Council Twitter account, the actor said: “Covid is a killer. I know only too well, because one of my brothers has just died from Covid-19.

“Don’t let it happen to you, send away for your kit today and do what you’re supposed to do. Save your life and your loved ones around you.”

Tomlinson, 81, said he had used a home testing kit.

As part of the pilot scheme, which began on November 6, anyone who lives or works in Liverpool can have a coronavirus test, even if they are not showing symptoms.

Not being able to get to a test centre doesn’t mean you can’t get tested.

Actor and comedian Ricky Tomlinson shares his passionate plea after one of his brothers sadly passes away.#LetsGetTested Liverpool ➡️ https://t.co/yUnIear8iA pic.twitter.com/f0qPRdNTav

— Liverpool City Council | #LetsGetTested (@lpoolcouncil) November 20, 2020

Other famous faces in the city have been supporting the #LetsGetTested campaign too with the likes of Les Dennis posting videos on Twitter to encourage others to get tested.

Our survey says… ✅

Brilliant to have support on our #LetsGetTested campaign from Mr @LesDennis.

Have you had your #Covid19 test?

➡️ https://t.co/yUnIear8iA

pic.twitter.com/xeo26Zeupm

— Liverpool City Council | #LetsGetTested (@lpoolcouncil) November 16, 2020

Figures from Thursday showed 144,548 Liverpool residents had been tested since the scheme began, with many using the lateral flow tests which give results within an hour.

About 2,000 soldiers have been deployed to the city to deliver the tests.

Speaking when he visited a testing site in the city on Monday, Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said the scheme was “going in the right direction” but they would like more people to take part.

The pilot was planned to run for 10 to 14 days initially but is now expected to last until the end of November.