Local residents have been told to “use your accident and emergency services wisely” after a recent spike in those seeking urgent help at Watford Hospital.

West Herts Hospitals NHS Trust has been using social media today (Wednesday) to warn patients that the hospital’s A & E department has been very busy.

The trust said on Twitter: “Please remember A & E is for serious injuries and illnesses only.”

Dr Mike Van Der Watt, medical director, explained: “Bank Holiday weekends and the immediate few days afterwards often prove very busy for A&E departments across the country.

“While the level of attendances at our A&E hasn’t increased significantly, we have seen a rise in the number of sicker patients who need additional care and who need to be admitted.”

He added: “We would like to remind local people that our A&E department is for people with serious injuries and illnesses, and to encourage those with minor conditions to use other services, for instance our urgent care centre (UCC) at Hemel Hempstead Hospital (open 24/7) and our minor injuries unit (MIU) at St Albans Hospital (open 9am to 8pm).

“People can also call the NHS on 111 for advice and support.”