Dorset County Hospital has said it is still extremely busy due to 'ongoing winter pressures'. 

In an update today, DCH has urged the public to help cope with the "high demand" on services by only using the emergency department for serious or life threatening conditions. 

A spokesman said: "It is down to ongoing winter pressures with continuing high levels of emergency admissions.

"For information about alternative local health services visit the Staywell Dorset website for advice: staywelldorset.nhs.uk.

"If you're not sure which service to use you can also call 111.

"You can find details of your local Minor Injuries Unit or Urgent Care Centre at:https://www.dorsethealthcare.nhs.uk/patients-and…/miu-and-ae

"Thank you for your help."