Doctors at Epsom and St Helier hospitals are urging people to avoid A&E unless in a genuine emergency ahead of the bank holiday weekend.

More than 1,300 people came to the department over the last bank holiday. This meant long waits for people with minor injuries, and put additional pressure on services.

Dr Amir Hassan, Clinical Director for A&E, said: “We work incredibly hard to make sure that every patient in A&E is cared for in a compassionate and timely way, but understandably, our sickest patients (who are often in a life-threatening condition) have to take priority.

“The majority of people who come to our A&E services are in genuine need, but if you need medical care and it’s not an emergency you may face a long wait, and there are a number of alternatives to consider that could help you avoid that.”

The hospitals are advising patients to use out-of-hours GP services or NHS walk-in centres and minor injury units. Alternatively, people can can call 111, the non-emergency number for the NHS.

If it is a genuine life-threatening emergency, such as loss of consciousness, an auto confused state, fits that are not stopping, or persistent chest pain, call 999.

Dr Hassan said: “We would like to thank the local community for their support in making sure only emergency cases come to A&E, but most of all, we want people to enjoy their weekend, and not spend it with us in A&E if it can be avoided!

"Whilst everyone likes to have fun on the long weekends, we would ask people to please do so responsibly, especially if you are drinking. Don’t let a night of fun become a night at your local A&E.”