AMBULANCE bosses are urging people to be patient as crews battle icy weather to get to emergencies.

The East of England Ambulance Service Trust said it is facing a significant increase in demand across the county.

Hayden Newton, chief executive of the trust, called on people not to call for an ambulance again while waiting for assistance unless their condition changes.

“We are getting to patients as quickly as we possibly can,” he said.

“Help is on its way to patients so please do not phone us back unless there is a change in your condition as your call will take up vital extra resources.”

Mr Newton also urged people considering calling 999 for an ambulance to only do so if it is really necessary.