People urged to 'be kind' as hospital A&E departments 'extremely busy'

People have been asked to be "kind and understanding" as hospital staff are "working tirelessly" to look after patients in busy A&E departments.

University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust said the emergency department at St Richard's Hospital in Spitalfield Lane, Chichester is "extremely busy".

The trust urged people to only go to A&E for emergencies.

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A spokesman for the hospital trust said: "St Richard's A&E department is currently extremely busy and our staff are working tirelessly to care for patients.

"Please be kind and understanding if you attend any of our hospitals. Only attend A&E for life-threatening emergencies."

For non-urgent conditions, people have been urged to call 111 for advice.

Urgent treatment centres and minor injury units are also open across the county for people with non life-threatening conditions to go to for advice.

NHS Sussex said: "Please help us help you by saving A&E for saving lives."