NHS bosses are asking patients to show "patience and kindness" as teams work hard to minimise further disruption following the Queen's funeral.

Frontline NHS teams worked throughout the recent period of mourning in Swindon and Wiltshire.

Many teams saw demand increase as other local services, including GP practices and community pharmacies, closed for the bank holiday. 

The dedicated staff at the region’s hospitals and urgent care facilities remained on hand to ensure care was available for those in need on Monday.

Great Western Hospital went ahead with most of its elective clinics because a large number were booked in for treatment.

The majority of patients were "keen" to keep their appointments, GWH's chief executive Kevin McNamara revealed.

Chief medical officer Dr Amanda Webb said: “The last week or so has been an incredibly challenging and emotional time for the whole country, but especially for those working in the NHS.

“It was only a few months ago that the Queen awarded the entire health service the George Cross medal for its efforts during the pandemic, and many staff have understandably felt a great sense of loss at Her Majesty’s passing.

“Coupled with this, frontline teams have been working around the clock to ensure those who have needed care could receive it quickly and safely, and the support shown by the public so far has been greatly appreciated.

“While some may have had appointments postponed, and others may face a longer wait this week due to increased activity, we ask that people show patience, kindness and understanding as we work to get patients seen in as short a time as possible.”

Any patient with a hospital or GP appointment scheduled for Monday should have been contacted directly ahead of the long weekend.

If an alternative date has not already been provided, people will be given details of their new appointment in the coming days.

Members of the public can continue to play their part in easing the pressure on the local NHS by choosing the healthcare option most appropriate for their condition.

Minor illnesses and injuries can be managed safely and effectively at home with rest and over-the-counter medication.

Quick help for anyone unsure of how to treat a less-urgent condition can also be sought from community pharmacies.

Further information on health and care services across Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire, as well as details of how to access local pharmacies, can be found at www.bsw.icb.nhs.uk.