Resident doctors are set to go on strike once more.

East Cheshire NHS Trust warned patients to expect 'major service disruption' following the British Medical Association's announcement of a four-day walkout by resident doctors.

Running from 7am on Monday, June 15, to 7am on Friday, June 19, the industrial action will affect services at all of the trust's sites, including Macclesfield, Congleton and Knutsford hospitals.

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."

Patients are advised to attend their appointments as originally scheduled unless they are contacted directly by the NHS. If a procedure or clinic needs to be postponed, the trust will reach out to affected individuals to reschedule as soon as possible.

During this period of industrial action, local residents are urged to reserve 999 and the emergency department for 'life-threatening' emergencies only.

These include conditions such as cardiac arrest, loss of consciousness, persistent seizures, severe breathing difficulties, heavy bleeding, or serious head injuries.

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For all non-urgent health concerns, the public is encouraged to use NHS 111 online as a first port of call.

Local GP practices and pharmacies also remain available to provide advice and treatment for minor illnesses and ongoing health management.

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