Patients to Darent Valley Hospital were turned away yesterday after it closed having reached full capacity.

NHS bosses says it was closed to new admissions for six-and-a-half hours.

It remained open to children and people visiting A&E on foot and anyone in immediate need of emergency help would be seen.

Ambulance crews were instructed to take emergency patients to other hospitals.

Dr David Woodhead, Clinical Accountable Officer for Dartford, Gravesham and Swanley Clinical Commissioning Group said: “This is the busiest time of year for the NHS and Darent Valley Hospital reached its full capacity.

"The hospital therefore had to close for a short time until beds became available.

“Throughout the short closure, which lasted from 5am until 11.30am, we liaised closely with all our partners at other hospitals in the region, the ambulance service, Kent County Council and GP surgeries to manage the current demand effectively.

“It is important to keep A&E departments free for those with life-threatening and serious illness and injuries, so if you are feeling unwell or need treatment for a minor injury or illness, please contact your GP, NHS Direct, local pharmacist or visit one of our NHS walk-in or minor injury centres.”