South Devon National Heath Service have said that all outpatient and non-urgent treatment appointments for today and tomorrow are cancelled.

The restricted service has been announced by Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust following the meteorological office issuing a red weather warning as an Atlantic storm meets the cold air from the East and brings Arctic conditions to the South West.

Liz Davenport, interim chief executive at Torbay Trust, said: “Due to the extreme winter weather conditions and red weather warning from the Met Office, we are putting in place our internal major incident plans, so that we can continue to support urgent and emergency services.

“The Met Office red warning means that people are advised not to travel, so we are cancelling all non-urgent activity today and tomorrow, including outpatient appointments and day surgery.

“We are using a fleet of 4x4s to help transport staff to and from work – including visiting people who urgently need treatment in their homes and communities. We are also appealing to any 4X4 drivers who could volunteer to support this activity over today and tomorrow to contact us on 01803 656269.

“Any of our clinical staff who can’t get to their usual place of work are also being asked to report to their nearest hospital for duty, in line with our policy.

“I would like to thank all our staff who have responded to help us keep vital services running.

“This level of winter weather warning is unprecedented for Devon and it is important that we all take responsibility for staying safe, so please do heed advice and warnings.”