TWO minor injury units in Herefordshire will shut over the winter for the third year running.

The Wye Valley NHS Trust said the units at Ross-on-Wye and Leominster community hospitals will close temporarily from November 4 to help deal with winter pressures.

Hospital bosses will be able to redeploy experienced emergency nurse practitioners to provide enhanced support to seriously ill patients at Hereford County Hospital.

"These extra staff will make a real difference," said Jon Barnes, chief operating officer at the Trust.

"We have a duty to provide safe and timely care to our patients. This decision will help us achieve that."

The Trust said its main concern is the safety of patients with acute and emergency conditions ensuring that they are assessed, diagnosed and treated rapidly.

All other services at Ross and Leominster community hospitals will continue as normal throughout the winter.

The public are being reminded by the Trust for minor injuries they should ring NHS 111, contact their GP practice or visit a local pharmacy for advice.