LOCAL authorities, health services and other bodies have set up a number of helplines for the public.

Those with outpatient appointments or operation dates at Worcester Royal Infirmary, Kidderminster Hospital and Redditch Alexandra Hospital should call 0800 0644101.

Worcestershire County Council is also providing a helpline on behalf of the emergency services, health trusts and district council, for general information on the crisis. It is open between 8am and 6pm on weekdays and is 01905 767677.

For information on local bus services, call 0845 712 5436. For local and national public transport inquiries, call 0870 608 2608. For national rail inquiries, call 08457 484950.