A STRIKE by junior doctors across Cumbria is underway.

The 24-hour walkout is part of a national strike organised by the British Medical Association (BMA).

It follows a long-running dispute with the Department of Health over new contracts.

A previous strike last month saw about 100 junior doctors taking part across north and west Cumbria, affecting the Cumberland Infirmary, West Cumberland Hospital and some community services.

It is not yet clear whether appointments will be affected.

Picket lines are being set up at local hospitals and a protest is also planned in Carlisle city centre at 2pm today.

North Cumbria University Hospitals NHS Trust says no operations have been cancelled and most services are operating as normal.

However members of the public are being urged to avoid putting unnecessary pressure on services.

Dr David Rogers, medical director for NHS Cumbria Clinical Commissioning Group and lead for the North Cumbria System Resilience Group, said: “Our first priority is patient safety and NHS organisations in Cumbria have tried and tested contingency plans in place. 

"We would urge everyone to ensure they use the right service for their

needs. It is very important that we make sure A&E is used for real emergencies only.

"If you aren’t sure if your ailment is an emergency you can get free and quick advice online through NHS Choices or call NHS 111."