Patients' relatives are being asked to stay away from the hospital

Three wards at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital are closed to new admissions in a bid to stop the spread of the diarrhoea and vomiting virus.

The outbreak, which has also hit part of four other wards, coincides with a high level of emergency admissions, the hospital said.

Patients' family and friends are being asked to stay away unless necessary.

Any need to postpone non-urgent surgery was being reviewed by the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospitals NHS Trust, the hospital said.

Director of nursing Marie-Noelle Orzel said: "We are disappointed to be affected in this way, although not surprised, as cases of vomiting and diarrhoea illnesses continue to be reported in the community."

"Patients should always come to us if they need emergency treatment of if they have an appointment.