A health official has warned residents in Buckinghamshire to prepare for junior doctor strikes to have ‘significant impact’ on NHS services.

Junior doctors and consultants across the UK will take part in a 72-hour strike beginning at 7am on Monday, October 2, and concluding at 7am on Thursday, October 5, primarily over pay disagreements.

Dr Nick Broughton, interim Chief Executive of the NHS Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Berkshire West Integrated Care Board (ICB) said the strikes would have a significant impact on NHS services across the region.

He urged patients in need of urgent medical care to attend their appointments as normal and asked all patients to be patient amid the “challenging” period.

READ MORE: 'It's so sad': Staff and residents protest shock closure of Bucks care home

"NHS staff working during the industrial action will be working hard in hospitals, community teams, GP services and pharmacies to keep people safe and respond to their needs.

“They are working very hard during a very challenging time – please do treat them with respect. We appreciate people's understanding and cooperation.

"Emergencies, critical care, maternity, trauma and neonatal care safe staffing will be our absolute priority, but it will involve the NHS working together across Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Berkshire West to ensure we are there for people at their moment of need. We are grateful to all our colleagues working during this time to keep services running and patients safe.”