By Hayley Robinson

More than 156 patients were treated for wrist, shoulder and head injuries at Sheppey Community and Sittingbourne Memorial Hospital after they fell during the icy conditions.

The two hospitals also had to deal with whiplash injuries from drivers and passengers involved in minor accidents between Friday, December 18 and Tuesday, December 22.

The figures are a 40 per cent increase to the same period last year.

Sarah Andrews, NHS Eastern and Coastal Kent Director of Nursing, said: "Your local minor injury unit is the best place to go to treat these types of injuries and we are pleased that people are making good choices about the NHS service they need.
"A minor injuries unit can also help with things like cuts, itches, skin complaints and animal bites.
"Many are open seven days a week from early in the morning until late in the evening. You do not need an appointment and they will often be able to treat you much quicker than Accident and Emergency.
"Anyone who is unsure about where to go should call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 or visit www.nhs.uk."