WORCESTERSHIRE health bosses have asked residents to attend A&E for ‘serious and life-threatening emergencies only’ to ease pressure on struggling NHS hospitals.

Emergency departments of Worcestershire Royal Hospital in Worcester and the Alexandra Hospital in Redditch have experienced high levels of demand for services in recent weeks.

Minor Injury Units (MIU) were closed in Bromsgrove, Malvern, Tenbury and Evesham for three days from New Year’s Eve so staff could support the struggling sites.

Kidderminster MIU remained unaffected and ran as normal during this period.

The NHS has faced pressure following three deaths at Worcestershire Royal and health bosses are reminding people to relieve pressure by using appropriate health service options.

Mari Gay, Interim Chief Officer for the Worcestershire CCGs, said: "There’s a wide range of health services available to people across Worcestershire and it’s important that people know what these are and how they can be accessed.

"Many minor health problems and complaints such as muscular, minor sports injuries can be solved with self-care.

"Support to manage these conditions can be given by a local pharmacist and if it’s an on-going problem then a GP can advise.

"It’s also important to be prepared if the weather does turn particularly cold, making plans now could help you stay warm and well during any bad weather."

Patients can contact their own GP during surgery hours, visit their local pharmacist, dial 111 for medical advice or visit the five Minor Injury Units across the county.