HAMPSHIRE'S ambulance service is working flat out to cope with levels of demand normally only seen during the hectic New Year period.

South Central Ambulance Service is currently receiving almost 2,000 999 calls a day - 400 more than it normally gets at this time of year.

And the number of calls to the urgent medical advice line - 111 - is running at more than 4,500 a day - up from 3,000 a day pre-pandemic.

It coincides with a sharp rise in the number of Covid cases in towns and cities across the south, including Southampton.

Mark Ainsworth, director of operations, said SCAS was facing "immense pressure" as a result of "intense demand" for the 999 and 111 services.

He also warned that capacity issues at some hospitals were preventing crews from handing over patients immediately, delaying their response to other incidents.

Mr Ainsworth added: “Our activity is more in line with the numbers we would be seeing over the busy New Year period when dealing with winter illnesses, consequences of festivities and people who have delayed accessing healthcare over Christmas.

“Staff have been flat out managing the effects of the pandemic for 18 months, so they're feeling the strain in the face of relentless pressure.

“The surge in demand has so far not been associated with Covid so any increase in cases of the infection is a concern given how that may impact us further.

"We are now seeing rising numbers across the region, particularly in Reading, Portsmouth and Southampton.”

SCAS has responded to increased demand by moving clinically-trained staff into frontline operational roles, training additional staff to work in the 111 call centre and making more use of private ambulance providers.

But the organisation is urging people to ensure they use the 999 service only for life-threatening emergencies.

Mr Ainsworth said: "There are still many occasions when we receive calls from patients who could have their needs met through urgent treatment centres or their GPs, sometimes even pharmacies, so we would greatly appreciate the support of the public while we manage this period of intensity.

"I also want to send a message of thanks to all of our staff and volunteers for continuing to provide quality care in challenging circumstances. We are incredibly proud of them.”