Emergency departments at Queen’s and King George Hospitals saw a record number of A&E attendances yesterday (Monday).

A spike in demand saw 830 people request emergency treatment at the hospitals in Romford and Goodmayes, respectively.

The high demand meant many who did not require emergency care faced long waits.

Matthew Hopkins, chief executive of Barking Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust which runs the two hospitals, said: “I’d like to apologise to those who had to wait to be seen, and thank our staff who pulled out all the stops to ensure people received the care that they needed.”

The number of people using hospital emergency departments has dramatically increased over the past year and health officials have reiterated advice aimed at freeing up staff to treat those with life-threatening illness and injuries.

Those requiring medical treatment are reminded that urgent GP appointments are available by calling 0203770188, and that pharmacists can treat many problems.

A community treatment tram is also able to provide immediate home help for adults. It can be contacted on 07795642319.