OLDBURY Custody Block has now re-opened following a brief closure after three staff tested positive for coronavirus.

West Midlands Police closed the facility for five days to carry out a thorough clean after confirmation custody staff had tested positive for the virus.

Superintendent Martin Hurcomb, from Sandwell Police, said: “Last Sunday we received confirmation of two positive cases and then a third person tested positive on Monday (August 3).

“We sought the advice of public health as quickly as possible and were able to put in all appropriate preventative action to minimise any onward infection.

“The custody block has now been re-opened.”

No members of the public detained in the block were assessed to have had significant contact with the infected individuals who are now self-isolating with at least 10 days in line with national guidance.

Police say they worked with Sandwell Council and Public Health England Midlands to identify and contact any staff members who may have had contact with the three individuals affected and a number of staff are also self-isolating for 14 days as a result.