Disruption lies ahead for patients with a resident doctors set to go on strike.

The British Medical Association has announced a five-day walkout of resident doctors from 7am on Friday, November 14, to 7am on Wednesday, November 19.

Previously known as junior doctors, the walkout will result in significant service disruption across all East Cheshire NHS Trust sites including Macclesfield, Knutsford and Congleton hospitals.

As such, the trust is urging the public to be mindful about visiting A&E and only attend in the event of an emergency.

Dr John Hunter, Chief Medical Officer for East Cheshire NHS Trust, said: "We are working closely with partners to ensure appropriate plans are enacted to deal with this severe disruption.

"During the resident doctor strikes, we are hoping to maintain as much planned activity as possible to minimise the disruption to patients."

The NHS will contact you if your appointment needs to be rescheduled. If you have not been contacted, please attend your appointment as planned.

During the upcoming industrial action, residents are urged to only call 999 or attend an emergency department in a life-threatening situation.

Typical emergencies include cardiac arrest, loss of consciousness, fits that are not stopping, breathing difficulties, severe bleeding, allergic reactions and serious head injuries.

For non-urgent concerns, seek help from NHS 111 online, or contact your GP and pharmacist.