NHS national medical director Professor Sir Stephen Powis said: “Industrial action is still causing significant disruption into Tuesday morning and services and staff will need time to recover. I would like to reiterate my thanks to NHS colleagues who are doing everything they can to manage the disruption and keep patients safe.

“It’s important that the public continue to use services wisely during this period by going to NHS 111 online first for help, advice and referral, and in a life-threatening emergency please continue to call 999.”