Hospital boss urges patients to avoid under-pressure Greater Manchester A&E 'unless serious or life-threatening'

Hospital bosses are urging patients to avoid a Greater Manchester A&E unless their condition is 'serious or life-threatening' due to soaring demand.

NHS Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh Teaching Hospitals has sent out a warning that the emergency department at Royal Albert Edward Infirmary is currently 'very busy'.

In a video plea issued online this morning (February 18), medical director Dr Sanjay Arya warned Wiganers: "We do really need your help."

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He is urging the community to consider alternative NHS services first - and suggests calling 111 is the right place to start.

Dr Arya said: "We are currently experiencing a high demand on our emergency services, with some patients attending our A&E department with minor issues that could be dealt with elsewhere.

"It's so important that we save our emergency care for those who are experiencing serious or life-threatening illnesses and need our urgent care the most.

"Our staff are doing an incredible job to care for the most unwell people and making sure they get the help they need as quickly and safely as possible, but we need your help.

"So before you rush to A&E, please help them by choosing the right NHS service and only attend the hospital if you have an appointment, or if you have an urgent or life-threatening issue.

"If you're unsure, think 111 first. They will help get you the right care and can even book you in at our emergency care department or to see a GP if necessary."

NHS hospitals across Greater Manchester have reported high demand at various times throughout the pandemic.

The region's hospital system is currently 'running very hot', with bed occupancy having hovered