The Bolton NHS Foundation Trust has issued advice about the use of hospitals after it has seen more than 1,500 people in its emergency services department since the new year.

Patients are advised they will be redirected if their condition is not urgent as people have turned up to A&E with dental problems, colds, and earaches.

Hospital bosses say industrial action as well as seasonal illnesses such as viruses, sickness bugs and people asking for help after Christmas and New Year is having a significant impact.

They also say people have come forward with conditions that could have been treated elsewhere such as dental problems, colds and earaches.

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Dr Francis Andrews, medical director at Bolton NHS Foundation Trust, said: "When our services become extremely busy we have to prioritise looking after those patients who need our help the most.

“January often brings challenges for us and over the past few days we have seen more people arriving in our Emergency Department than we have patients being discharged from hospital back to the place they call home.

"This means as we head into the weekend we may have to redirect people with more minor illnesses and conditions to other health services available in Bolton.

“We understand how worrying it can be when you’re not feeling well, but it’s really important, especially at times like this, that you think carefully about where the best place is for your care and treatment.

“Our Emergency Department is open 24/7 for life threatening emergencies, and it’s really important that people continue to come forward for that care.

“NHS 111 online, GP surgeries and local pharmacies are there to help if your condition isn’t urgent, and you may even be seen sooner by making appropriate use of these services.

“Thank you for your understanding and support as we help those most in need."