A Buckinghamshire resident has described the accident and emergency department at Wexham Park Hospital as ‘overrun’ following a huge influx of patients.

Wexham Park Hospital, which is based in Slough but lies near the Berkshire/Buckinghamshire border, experienced ‘unusually high pressures’ since the start of the month, with the person in question stating that they had ‘been sat on a chair for 24 hours as there were no beds.’

This has led Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust, which runs the hospital, to ‘ask the public for help’, by encouraging residents and patients to only visit A & E if they are suffering from a serious or life-threatening injury or illness.

READ MORE: 'Officers are concerned' as 15-year-old girl with Buckinghamshire links goes missing

Their statement, which was published on October 10, said: “Both our acute hospital sites at Frimley Park and Wexham Park are experiencing unusually high pressures at present, and we are asking the public for their help.

“Our emergency departments remain fully open and are here for anyone who is suffering a very serious or life-threatening injury or illness.

“But in all other circumstances, we are asking people to choose the right service – including 111 online if you are not sure.

“Please use this guide to choosing the right service for you.

READ MORE: Ring found in Buckinghamshire village declared as TREASURE

“We are also asking that if you have a loved one in hospital who is likely to be going home soon, please help by making sure everything is in place for them.

“This includes arranging transport, ensuring you have access to their house keys, discussing any follow-up care with hospital staff, bringing clean clothes for travel and ensuring their home is ready when they return, including food and drink.

“If you have an appointment or procedure scheduled with us, please continue to attend as normal unless we have contacted you directly.”

Those who are not in need of emergency medical assistance are encouraged to call 111 instead.