The QEH is tonight appealing for the public's help dealing with a spike in demand, after 'significant numbers' of acutely-ill patients were admitted to A&E.

Chief operating Karen Croker said: 'All 57 escalation beds within the West Norfolk healthcare system are currently in use. Our A&E department continues to treat large numbers of frail, elderly and acutely ill people, who require admittance to hospital. This demand for beds combined with the high number of medically fit patients we are also treating, has created a substantial amount of pressure. We would appeal to the public to consider their options before setting out for A&E. We would never deter anyone from seeking medical treatment but would encourage people first to dial NHS 111 for advice.'

People who have experienced diarrhoea or vomiting in the past 48 hours should refrain from visiting the hospital.