A "critical incident" has been declared by University of North Midlands Trust (UHNM) due to "exceptional pressure" on services at Royal Stoke University Hospital and County Hospital.

UHNM says the declaration of a critical incident is due to a combination of factors including high numbers of patients requiring care, delays in discharging patients from hospital, and "significant pressure" on local ambulance services.

A spokesperson for UHNM said: "This is impacting our ability to move patients through our hospitals safely and as quickly as we would like.

"Our priority is to provide safe care to those who need it most. As part of our response, we are prioritising urgent and emergency treatment, working closely with our NHS partners to improve patient flow, and redeploying staff to support our busiest areas."

The trust is urging the public to help during this period by choosing the "most appropriate service for their needs".

Those who do not have a life-threatening condition have been encouraged to consider using NHS 111, local pharmacies, GP services and walk-in centres.

The UHNM spokesperson added: "Emergency departments should be used for serious or life-threatening conditions only.

"We would like to thank our staff for their continued hard work and dedication and our patients and communities for their support and understanding."

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UHNM says further updates will be provided as the situation develops.