'Life-threatening emergencies at A&E only'

People are being urged to ease the pressure at A&E by using NHS 111, GPs and pharmacists

People are being urged to avoid the emergency department at the Isle of Wight's hospital after a sharp rise in numbers.

St Mary's Hospital in Newport said more than 200 patients were seen in A&E on Monday "resulting in significant waits".

Isle of Wight NHS Trust said: "Our emergency care floor is exceptionally busy. Please only attend in life-threatening emergencies."

Patients who arrive at the emergency department requiring minor care can be expected to be asked to use other services, including NHS 111, GPs and pharmacists.

The hospital said a spike to the A&E department of more than 200 patients on Monday had led to "significant waits"

The hospital trust said it always planned for an increase in patients during holiday periods.

It said typically over the Easter bank holiday weekend an average of 20% more people attended the Emergency Department, "including those who could be better treated elsewhere".

The hospital's medical director, Steve Parker, said: "We hope everyone enjoys the bank holiday weekend with no injury or illness but it's important to know where to go if you need urgent medical advice or treatment.

"We often see people attending our emergency department when they are not sure where else to go but it is vital that we keep emergency departments available for those who need lifesaving care."