TWO wards will remain closed to new admissions at the Royal Bolton Hospital today in an effort to contain a suspected outbreak of the Norwalk virus, which causes sickness and diarrhoea.

Another patient has experienced symptoms, taking the total of suspected cases to 12. A spokesperson said it was unlikely the orthopaedic wards would open today.

Visitors are being urged to be extra hygienic and always wash their hands.

The two wards were closed on Sunday to contain the winter vomiting bug.