Royal Bolton Hospital warn people over long A&E times

With the waiting time to average around seven hours this afternoon at the Emergency Department at Royal Bolton Hospital, people are advised to only attend in life threatening emergencies.

READ MORE: Royal Bolton Hospital extremely busy, seeing 6 hour waits

READ MORE: Royal Bolton Hospital warning over 'extremely busy' A&E

READ MORE: Royal Bolton Hospital's warning over A&E waiting times

The hospital put a message out on their X account, saying: "Our Emergency Department's really busy this afternoon, with waits of around 7 hours.

"We always prioritise those who most need our help.

"You can help by only attending in a life or limb-threatening emergency.

Royal Bolton Hospital (Image: Royal Bolton Hospital)

"For minor conditions or advice please use http://111.nhs.uk."

For minor conditions people are being advised to use NHS 111 online, local pharmacies and GPs, and the GP out of hours service which can be contacted via their GP surgery or directly on 0161 763 8940.

Dr Francis Andrews, Medical Director at Bolton NHS Foundation Trust, has previously said: “We have robust plans in place to reduce the impact as much as we can and to deliver safe and high quality care, but we’re once again asking for the public’s support to help us make sure we can treat our sickest patients as quickly as possible.

“We’re always here to help in life or limb-threatening emergencies, but if your condition isn’t urgent please consider seeking treatment elsewhere.

“NHS 111 has lots of advice and we have pharmacies across Bolton who can help with minor conditions such as coughs, colds, earaches and sore throats.

“Thank you for your ongoing kindness and support."