NHS national medical director Professor Sir Stephen Powis said: “I would like to thank all colleagues across the NHS who are working so hard to keep patients safe during the latest round of industrial action, part of the longest and most disruptive period the health service has ever seen.

“I would also like to thank the public for using services wisely during this action by going to 111 first for help, advice and referral, although in a life-threatening emergency people should continue to call 999.”