A hospital trust has confirmed that St Albans City Hospital will not be closing during the coronavirus pandemic.

Rumours on social media suggested that the hospital will be closing soon, with all staff set to be transferred to Watford General Hospital.

However, West Hertfordshire Hospitals Trust said that this was not the case.

A spokesperson from the trust said it could "categorically confirm that St Albans City Hospital will not be closing".

It comes after the hospital trust asked the public not to visit its hospitals in Watford, St Albans, or Hemel Hempstead - other than for two exceptions.

The public can attend if they are the nominated birthing partner, or if they are the parent or guardian for paediatric patients (children).

The trust says asking people to stay away will help prevent the spread of the virus and encourage people to stay at home.

It is still seeing urgent and two-week-wait outpatient appointments but all non-urgent activity like planned surgery, other outpatient appointments, and telephone consultations have ceased with immediate effect.

The trust also tweeted that visitors should only accompany patients to A&E, the minor injuries unit, or urgent treatment centre if "absolutely necessary".