Dorset County Hospital remains under 'extreme pressure' following the severe weather disruption last week.

Residents are therefore being reminded to only attend the Emergency Department for anything that is urgent or life-threatening as the hospital attempts to get back to normal.

In an update today DCH says it is running as many scheduled appointments today as possible.

A spokesman said: "Unless you have heard from us directly to say your appointment has been postponed please assume it is going ahead and come in as planned."

Speaking about general pressures the spokesman said: "The hospital is extremely busy due to ongoing pressures following the severe weather.

"Please help us deal with the high demand on our Emergency Department by accessing alternative local health services for anything which isn't urgent or life threatening.

"If you're not sure which service to use please call 111. You can also visit the Staywell Dorset website for advice staywelldorset.nhs.uk Thank you for your help."

You can find details for your nearest Minor Injuries Unit or Urgent Care Centre here: https://www.dorsethealthcare.nhs.uk/patients-and-visitors/miu-and-ae​