The number of coronavirus patients currently cared for at Salisbury District Hospital is as high as it was during the first peak of the pandemic.

Today (December 28), the hospital confirmed that 44 positive patients are onsite, up from 22 on Monday last week.

The number is as high as it was in mid April, a spokesperson confirmed.

The rising number of Covid-19 patients at this time of year means staff are under "intense" pressure.

The hospital is asking the public to play its part, only visiting loved ones when necessary, contacting ward staff before travelling to the site and adhering to social distancing guidance at all times.

Read more: Six things you can do to help

Dr Peter Collins Medical Director said: "It is common for our hospital to be busy over the Holiday period, but this year the impact of rising numbers of COVID-19 cases means that we are experiencing significant pressure on our emergency services.

"Our dedicated staff continue to provide safe and timely care at Salisbury Hospital but we ask the public to help us by using 111, walk in centres or minor injury units and other sources of medical advice and only come to A&E if they feel they have a genuine medical emergency.

"We would ask that people restrict visiting to essential visits only and contact ward staff before traveling to the hospital site as we must continue to limit visitors as much as possible to protect our patients and staff."