Patients are being urged to only head to Warwick Hospital if necessary as the A&E faces "very high demand".

South Warwickshire University NHS Foundation Trust has today (August 18) asked locals to consider using other local services to help combat waiting times.

"Warwick Hospital is currently facing very high demand," a trust statement said.

"Waiting times may be longer than usual due to the current high demand.

"If you do not have a life-threatening or emergency condition, please consider using an alternative service where appropriate.

"If your condition is not life-threatening or an immediate emergency, please consider using an alternative NHS service."

Locals read being encouraged to use the minor injuries unit at Stratford Hospital, Solihull Urgent Treatment Centre or the urgent treatment centre at Hospital of St Cross, Rugby.

"By using the right service for your healthcare needs you are helping our Emergency Department care for the people that really need us," the statement added.

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