Kingston Hospital's Accident and Emergency (A&E) department said they were "exceptionally busy" during Wednesday afternoon and urged prospective visitors to consider other options.

Soaring summer temperatures on Wednesday (July 24) exacerbated already stretched services as the NHS Foundation Trust hospital.

In a statement sent to the Comet, a spokesperson for Kingston Hospital described the incredibly busy level of demand they were experiencing Wednesday afternoon.

"The hospital is currently exceptionally busy and we are working around the clock to make sure all our patients get the best care in the most appropriate place.

"The hot weather we are experiencing is adding to these pressures.

The spokesperson added that staff at the hospital were working hard to discharge patients as soon as it was safe to do so and ensure that there were enough beds for those who needed them most.

They also urged people who might be visiting A&E in Kingston to consider going to the pharmacy or seeing their GP rather than add to the pressures of the great numbers of prospective patients at the hospital.

"We are working with our community partners to help ensure that the right support is in place for patients when they leave the hospital, so that we are able to discharge patients safely and have beds available for the most acutely ill patients who need them.

"We are urging people to only visit A&E in a real emergency and where possible visit your local pharmacist, GP, walk in centre or minor injuries unit instead," the spokesperson said.

For NHS advice on how to stay safe, see: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-body/heatwave-how-to-cope-in-hot-weather/