HOSPITAL bosses are warning resident not to come to Blackburn A&E unless their condition is 'life-threatening'.

East Lancashire Hospitals Trust posted on social media tonight that people should check symptoms at NHS 111 first.

Live statistics on the East Lancashire Trust website show that the waiting time to see a clinician at the Emergency Department is between two and four hours.

There are also 57 patients in the department and 11 were waiting to be seen at 6.11pm.

A spokesman said: "IMPORTANT. Our Emergency Department is extremely busy right now. If you are feeling unwell but it is not life-threatening, please check your symptoms at NHS 111 online first. 
 

"You could save yourself a trip to the hospital by accessing more appropriate care elsewhere."