"trying to submit sample at gp request"

I have just rung Whipps Cross to find out whether I could submit a sample today (Sunday). The, presumably, receptionist said they didn't know and if anyone was in the lab I should come back tomorrow. I have been barely well enough to leave my bed for the past three days, I'm not making wasted trips based on useless information. Why could I not be told a simple yes or no as to whether I could submit a sample? Then I asked what time the lab was open on Monday. I was told maybe 9-5. Maybe? Then I was told that if I turned up and the lab was open I could just leave my sample in the fridge? It's appalling that the hospital can't provide the most basic of information ie when its services are available!