STAFF at an over-crowded hospital have asked residents to avoid the accident and emergency department unless it is vital.

More than 80 residents were stuck in the waiting area at Royal Berkshire Hospital earlier today, with a further 200 patients already being seen to.

The trust announced that this weekend was one of its "busiest ever", and there are currently lengthy waits for people to be seen.

Residents are being urged to seek alternative care for their concerns unless it is a genuine emergency.

A spokesman for the Craven Road hospital said: "There are long waits, with priority given to the sickest people attending.

"This time last year, we were seeing an average of circa 250 to 280 patients and admitting 86 over a weekend. Over this weekend we saw 350 people through A&E with 109+ admitted on Saturday. Our new “normal” is higher than last year. By lunchtime today we had 81 people in A&E and had already had approximately 200 patients through.

"We are asking the public to please choose well. Do not come to A&E unless you need care that cannot be provided by GPs, pharmacists or seek advice from NHS 111."

Neighbours can use the walk in centre in Broad Street Mall, Reading, as an alternative.

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