A "CRITICAL" situation over the supply of oxygen in Southend hospital has been resolved, according to an MP.

James Duddridge, MP for Rochford and Southend East, said he has spoken with bosses at the Mid and South Essex Hospitals Trust who have confirmed it is now on top of the situation.

It comes after the hospital said it was experiencing "high demand" for oxygen last week and that it needed to use the supplies "efficiently".

Mr Duddridge said: "I would like to thank Clare for taking the time to speak with me on Friday. I have been reassured that the issue to do with the oxygen has been resolved.

"However, Covid-19 continues to put significant pressure on Southend Hospital, therefore I would urge residents to continue playing their part to protect the NHS by staying at home.

"May I also take this opportunity to once again thank all of the NHS staff who are working day and night to keep us all safe.”