Stoke-on-Trent's main hospital, Royal Stoke, has been hit by a four-day junior doctor strike which takes place this week. 

Junior doctors across the country are on strike from 11 April to 15 April. 

A spokesperson for University Hospitals of North Midlands, said: "The days leading into and immediately after bank holiday weekends are already challenging for the NHS. 

"It is expected that there will be disruption to services at Royal Stoke during the four days of industrial action and we are asking the public for their support to help reduce the impact of this on our patients."

Royal Stoke University Hospital say they will be prioritising emergency care during this time (SWNS).

Many planned appointments and clinics will have been rescheduled due to the strike. 

Royal Stoke say they will be prioritising emergency care during this time. 

Pharmacies, walk-in centres, minor injury units and urgent treatment centres will also continue to be available across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent.

UHNM Medical Director, Dr Matthew Lewis said: "Patient safety is our absolute priority and we are working together with our healthcare partners to ensure essential urgent and emergency care services are available so that patients can continue to access vital medical attention when they need it most.

"We are asking patients to help NHS staff during this time and use services wisely. Only use our emergency departments and 999 for life-threatening illnesses or injuries to ensure care is available to patients who need it most. If it is not an emergency, use NHS 111 online as the first port of call for help, advice and support."

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