Derriford Hospital influx sparks high alert

Some operations have been cancelled after Derriford Hospital in Plymouth went on 'black alert', meaning it is under extreme pressure.

Extra staff have been called in after a big rise in patient numbers, the hospital said.

But a spokesperson said no-one was being turned away.

Torbay Hospital in Devon said it was on the lower 'red alert' which means it is under significant pressure after an increase in the vomiting bug norovirus.

Derriford Hospital said there had been a high volume of accident and emergency patients and a "very high level" of general admissions.

'Improving position'

A spokesperson said: "We are closely managing things and working closely with community agencies to ease pressure on beds.

"Winter can see a rise in demand but there does not seem to be a specific reason for the increase which is right across the local patch."

The hospital said in a statement that the 'black alert' was issued on Monday.

It said "due to the actions taken we are in an improving position".

It thanked staff for maintaining standards of care and services "whilst under significant capacity pressure".

It continued: "We of course apologise to any patient who may have been affected during this exceptionally busy time."

There was no further comment from Torbay Hospital.