Health experts in north Cumbria are once again issuing a plea to members of the public to help them reduce pressure on hospitals in the area.

Staff at North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust (NCIC) are urging people to think twice about visiting A&E unless their situation is urgent.

A&E attendances have been rising month on month at hospitals in north Cumbria.

According to NHS data, A&E attendances at NCIC hospitals rose from 9,939 attendances in May, to 10,513 in June.

Associate Medical Director at North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Trust, Dr Louise Buchanan, said: “Our services are very busy and our staff are working really hard, please be patient and kind as we treat people in order of those who need it most.

"The most urgent cases continue to be prioritised. If your condition is not urgent we ask that you use NHS 111 online, or seek advice from your GP or pharmacy first.

"If you really do need to come to A&E, please come alone if possible so we can keep you and everyone else safe.

“Even though restrictions have been lifted in most public places as of last week, nothing has changed in our hospital settings and patients are still reminded to adhere to the infection prevention measures we have in place across our hospitals such as wearing masks, social distancing and hand washing regularly.

“We urge everyone to keep following the safety recommendations and remember it’s not too late to get your COVID vaccine to minimise the risk of infection.”

According to government statistics, the number of Covid-19 cases in north Cumbria has been dropping of late.

The data shows that the total number of cases between July 15 and 22 dropped 26 per cent to 555 in Carlisle.

In Allerdale, the number of total cases is currently at 569, having dropped by 18.7 per cent between July 15 and 22.

The number of total cases have also dropped in Copeland by 14 per cent to 544 between July 17 and 22.

For more information on how to access the right kind of help, visit www.nhs.uk.