HOSPITAL chiefs have declared a major incident after a power-cut at Southampton General Hospital.

In a statement, a spokesperson for University Hopsital Southampton said: "The hospital has suffered a major power cut and has declared a major incident.

"All patients in Southampton General and the Princess Anne hospitals are safe.

"All non-urgent activity is cancelled at present.

"Please do not attend the hospital for non-urgent care such as outpatients, routine x-rays or blood tests.

"We are asking relatives not to visit the UHS until further notice. Staff are busy caring at present and we would further ask you not to call switchboard if possible.

"The emergency department is closed for all except urgent emergencies.

Daily Echo:

"We will keep you informed as the day goes on and are grateful for your support at present and apologise to those whose care is now delayed."