Pressures at Basingstoke hospital have "stabilised" but "have not gone away", as health bosses continue to appeal for residents to use the right service if they need medical attention.

As previously reported, Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, which runs Basingstoke, Andover and Winchester hospitals, was put on black alert earlier this week after experiencing "unprecedented levels of demand".

The Trust warned non-urgent care could be disrupted after announcing its A&E departments in Basingstoke and Winchester were "busier than ever".

But now, the Trust have released a statement saying that they are seeing "a reduction in the pressures across our hospital sites".

HHFT say the levels of demands have "stabilised".

A spokesperson continued: "Our teams across the trust have been working incredibly hard to care for everyone who comes through the front doors of our hospitals.

"The pressures in our hospitals have not gone away and remain at a very high level, so please remember to use the right service to get the care and advice you need.

"You can reach out to your local pharmacy, minor injuries unit, or contact your GP for urgent treatment or advice that is not life-threatening.

"If you have a medical problem and you are not sure what to do, you can contact NHS 111 online or by calling 111 for help.

"If you are coming to our hospitals, please remember that surgical facemasks, social distancing and regular handwashing remain in place after July 19.

"Thank you for your patience and your support."

HHFT declared a black alert on Wednesday. Hospitals usually declare this highest alert level when they are under such significant pressure that they cannot ‘deliver comprehensive care’ and patient care is at risk.

The Trust previously declared a black alert in January for its Covid services after a surge in admissions.