Junior doctors at Wythenshawe Hospital are among thousands throughout the country taking part in a national strike over pay and conditions.

Hospital bosses have assured patients plans are in place to ensure that anyone needing urgent or emergency care will be seen as soon as possible.

Silas Nicholls, Acting Chief Executive, University Hospital of South Manchester NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Our top priority, at all times, is the safety and care of patients.

“Any patient scheduled to have treatment at UHSM on Tuesday 12th January and directly affected by this planned industrial action will have been notified of plans. All postponed appointment or operations will be rearranged.

“You can support us by keeping A&E free for those patients who require urgent attention for a serious or life threatening situation and by accessing alternative healthcare professionals such as pharmacists, GPs, Dentists, Walk-in services, calling NHS 111 or using NHS Choices (www.nhs.uk).

“Thank you to all our patients and colleagues for their understanding and support during this time.”

The dispute between junior doctors and the government is over a new contract imposed by the government.

Ministers offered doctors an 11% rise in basic pay last year, but that was offset by curbs to other elements of the pay package, including payments for unsociable-hours.

The government says the changes are needed to create more seven-days services, but the doctors’ union, the British Medical Association says safeguards to prevent excessive hours are being weakened by the deal.

A BBC Newsnight poll shows significant support for doctors taking strike action while maintaining emergency cover.