Winter Vomiting Disease is a highly infectious virus and can be spread on hands, clothing or bedding.

It is believed the virus could have been brought into the hospital by a patient or visitor.

A hospital spokesman said stringent infection control measures are now in place.

New admissions and transfers to the wards affected have been temporarily stopped until the wards are declared clean by the Infection Control Team.

Relatives with any recent or current symptoms of diarrhoea or vomiting are being asked not to visit the hospital.