HEALTH leaders are urging people to only call 999 for an ambulance or attend A&E for life-threatening conditions on Monday (February 6) during what is expected to be the biggest strike day the NHS has ever seen.

Nurses from the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) will walk out alongside GMB and Unite paramedics, call handlers and other ambulance staff.

Nurses are set to strike again on Tuesday, and ambulance workers again on Friday.

Dr Neil O'Brien, Executive Medical Director for NHS North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board, said: "It is going to be another challenging few days with more services across the region affected. We have plans in place to ensure the safety of those patients who may need our help in an emergency, and we are putting into practice all that worked well from the previous industrial action. However, patients should expect long delays at a time when services continue to be under significant pressure.

"Patients should continue to attend scheduled appointments as planned unless they hear from the NHS to say otherwise. Any postponed appointments will be re-arranged as a priority.

"Emergency and urgent care services will remain open. If someone is seriously ill or injured and their life is at risk, please call 999.

"For non- life-threatening illnesses and injuries, use 111.nhs.uk, which is available 24 hours a day, or contact your local community pharmacist or GP practice."