Patients have been warned of potential disruption as a strike gets underway at Macclesfield District General Hospital.

The British Medical Association has announced a five-day walkout of resident doctors from 7am on Friday (July 25) to 7am on Wednesday (July 30).

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.

The trust has urged the public to be mindful about calling 999 and visiting A&E during the industrial action, asking them to only do so in the event of a 'life-threatening' 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."

Residents are urged to only attend A&E in a 'life-threatening' emergency (Credit: ECNHST)

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

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When it comes to emergencies, those experiencing cardiac arrest, loss of consciousness, fits that are not stopping, breathing difficulties, severe bleeding, allergic reactions and serious head injuries are advised to call 999 or visit A&E.

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