PATIENTS are being asked to only attend A&E with emergency or life-threatening conditions as Salisbury District Hospital experiences ‘extremely’ high demand.

The hospital is asking people to consider alternative services such as seeing their GP, ringing 111 or attending a local pharmacy.

The Local Minor Injuries Unit in Andover deals with minor head, face and eye injuries and fractures, while Salisbury Walk In Centre is open between 6.30pm and 10pm weekdays and 8am to 8pm on weekends.

A spokesperson for the hospital said: “Our hospital is still experiencing extremely high demand. To help us care for those who need us most, we are asking that only patients with emergency or life-threatening conditions attend our A&E department.

“Please be aware that longer waiting times are likely, as our teams prioritise patients who are most seriously unwell.

“Thank you for your continued support and understanding.”

For advice on staying well and choosing the right service this winter, visit https://www.salisbury.nhs.uk/stay-well-this-winter/