A&Es struggle after unexplained 'sharp rise' in demand

There has been a surge in the numbers of people going to accident and emergency units in England over the winter.

There was also a big increase in the number of calls to the 111 helpline - up 30% on the same week last year in some areas.

NHS managers say the pressures on hospitals are not likely to abate in the run up to spring.

Jane Dreaper reports.