Huntingdonshire residents have been urged to think before choosing to attend A&E over the bank holiday weekend.

At Easter, 535 people visited Hinchingbrooke Hospital’s A&E, with just 153 admitted to hospital.

Of the remaining 382, 145 were discharged with no follow up recommended, 116 were discharged and advised to follow up with their GP, 44 were referred to fracture clinic, 54 were referred to other hospital services and 23 left the department before treatment or refused treatment.

Cara Charles-Barks, chief operating officer at Hinchingbrooke, added: “Our staff in A&E are here to care for you, but we will always treat the most seriously ill and injured first. If you have a minor illness or injury, then please help us by seeking help from your local pharmacy or out of hours GP or by calling 111 first.”

INFORMATION: For details on alternative health services, Bank Holiday opening hours in Cambridgeshire and how to register with a GP visit, www.choosewellcambs.nhs.uk.