PATIENTS attending - or thinking of attending - the accident and emergency department at the Royal Gwent Hospital are being warned by Aneurin Bevan University Health Board that some delays are “inevitable” as staff are currently dealing with a high number of emergencies.

The board has apologised for any inconvenience, and is advising that where appropriate, patients consider using the minor injuries units at Ysbyty Ystrad Fawr, in Ystrad Mynach (open 7.30am-11.30pm, seven days a week), or Ysbyty Aneurin Bevan, in Ebbw Vale (open 9am-7pm, Monday-Friday).

Alternatives also include NHS Direct Wales for information and advice, on 0845 46 47, or the Choose Well pages at www.wales.nhs.uk