THE weather has led to a rise in the number of people being treated at the region’s hospitals after falling on icy pavements.

North Bristol NHS Trust, which runs Frenchay and Southmead hospitals, has treated an increased number of patients for minor injuries.

Spokesman Richard Cottle said: "There has been a significant increase in the number of people coming to hospital after falls, slips and trips.

"We have also seen a rise in weather-related illnesses including breathing problems as well as strokes and cardiac arrests.

"But we have not been unable to cope and on all days last week our hospitals had a full compliment of staff."

Health workers have made extraordinary efforts to get to work including a 74-year-old porter who walked from Lawrence Weston in Bristol to Frenchay Hospital.

The fractures clinic at Gloucestershire Royal Hospital treated four times the normal number of patients last week and was expecting the same increases this week. Most of the injuries have affected elderly people and some children have needed treatment after getting hurt sledging.

Staff have been staying at the hospital overnight to ensure they can work the following day.

Dr Delia Parnham-Cope, a consultant in the hospital's emergency department, said: "We've had staff walking in long distances because their cars haven't worked and we've had staff staying overnight so they could be available for their shift the next day.

"I think we're still managing to provide the service that the patients need." Patients with pre-arranged appointments and operations are being advised to call ahead to check if services have been affected by the weather.

People are being told not to put themselves in danger to get to appointments but to let hospitals know if they will not be attending.

Firefighters are being praised for their efforts getting to work.

Avon Fire and Rescue Service’s chief fire officer praised the dedication of staff during freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall.

Kevin Pearson said: "I am really proud of all our staff, who regardless of the weather either arrived at their normal workplace, relocated to the nearest AF&RS premises, or worked from home. It shows they are truly dedicated to making sure that the communities we serve are protected.

"Throughout the heavy snow and freezing temperatures Avon Fire & Rescue Service has been fully staffed, with all appliances available, including at our retained stations, many of which are in rural areas where conditions are particularly difficult."

Four wheel drive vehicles and snow chains have been used by the service to make sure firefighters can get to emergency calls.