ALL non-essential appointments at Great Western Hospital have been cancelled so that staff can focus on caring for coronavirus patients.

GWH announced the news earlier today.

A spokesman said: "Staff at Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust are treating seriously ill patients who have tested positive for COVID-19, and this number will continue to rise in the days and weeks ahead. 

"To help manage these patients, we are cancelling all non-essential appointments and other routine activity. 

"This includes check-ups, follow-ups and most referrals from GPs. All patients will receive a text message to alert them of cancelled appointments.

"Please do not visit the hospital if your appointment has been cancelled, unless you have been contacted by us and instructed that your appointment is still going ahead. 

"We will be continuing some appointments, including chemotherapy and other cancer treatment, plaster removal and new fractures.

"Please do not call the booking centre with any queries.

"Our colleagues are now busy contacting those with essential appointments and are not available to answer the phone. 

"Please also be aware that, if your appointment is cancelled, you will still be seen at a later date.

"We are currently not rebooking these appointments at this time, but will do so once the COVID-19 pandemic has ceased. 

"Thank you for your cooperation.

"If you have received a virtual outpatient appointment and need to come here to collect your prescription, please park in a 20-minute drop-off bay outside Boots Pharmacy, call 01793 605470, and a member of staff will deliver your prescription to your car."