People are being urged to only go to James Paget Hospital in an emergency as the hospital is operating at capacity.

Eastern Daily Press: James Paget University Hospital, Gorleston, Norfolk.James Paget University Hospital, Gorleston, Norfolk.

Every bed is occupied meaning patients who come to the hospital face being treated in trolley beds in corridors.

In a statement the hospital said the level of demand has remained 'consistently high' throughout the last two weeks without any reduction.

Chiefs expect the same amount of pressure for the next few days and into next week.

Graham Wilde, chief operating officer, said: 'My message to people is: Please do not attend our A&E department unless your condition is an emergency and life-or-limb-threatening.

'We would also like people to consider, if you're able, to support a family member who is currently awaiting discharge.'

Clinical staff are reviewing all patients on wards to check if it is safe and appropriate for them to be discharged.

Meanwhile the public are being asked to play their part in helping the current situation by remembering that, if it is not an emergency, other options are available instead of calling 999 or visiting A&E.

This includes calling 111 if you're not sure which service you need, asking your pharmacist, seeing your GP. or going to a minor injuries unit at Beccles Hospital or Cutler Hill Surgery, Halesworth.