FURNESS General Hospital staff who are off this bank holiday are being urged to go to work today if they can to help the A&E department cope with a large number of patients.

Bosses at University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust are asking registered nurses who are available to work today to contact their clinical site manager.

The trust's accident and emergency centres in Barrow and Lancaster are described as being very busy today.

People considering going to A&E are being urged to make use of other healthcare options for minor problems and ailments to free up doctors and nurses for the most serious cases.

A spokeswoman for University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust said: "Our accident and emergency departments are very busy today.

"If you are unwell and need help, please consider which is the best NHS service for you before coming to our A&Es.

"This will help keep our staff free to look after those people that need urgent medical attention.

"There are a range of local health services available to you when you are feeling unwell, and depending on the seriousness of your symptoms, you could get help faster and easier by using another service rather than A&E.

"These services include your local pharmacy, GPs, a walk in centre or even self-help for minor conditions. If you're not sure which service is best for you, you can contact NHS 111 for free, specialist advice or visit https://www.uhmb.nhs.uk/our-services/think-why-e-and.

"We are also asking any UHMBT registered nurses who are able to work today at either Furness General Hospital or the Royal Lancaster Infirmary to contact the relevant clinical site manager via switchboard on 01229 870870."