Junior doctors have gone out on strike at the Royal Cornwall Hospital over a new contract which they say will negatively impact patient safety.

But the hospital, which remains on black alert due to high patient levels following Christmas and the new year, has said it will work to minimise any disruption and most outpatient clinics should go ahead.

Tens of thousands of junior doctors across the country walked out this morning after the government failed to address their concerns about contractual safeguards on safe working and recognition for working unsocial hours.

They will be providing emergency cover only, in the first of three possible strikes after talks between the government and the British Medical Association (BMA) broke down.

Royal Cornwall Hostpital Trust (RCHT) medical director Dr Rob Parry said: "Our hospitals remain busy and continue to be on serious internal incident status.  We would ask for the public’s continued support in using alternative services wherever possible. 

"Our clinical teams will be working to minimise any disruption as a result of the current pressure or the planned industrial action today. 

"We expect the majority of outpatient clinics to go ahead as planned and will contact patients individually if there is any change to their scheduled appointment or operation."

BMA junior doctors committee chair Johann Malawana said: "Junior doctors feel they have been left with no option but to take this action.

"We have been clear throughout this process that we want to negotiate a contract that is safe and fair, and delivers for junior doctors, patients and the NHS as whole.

"This remains our goal and our door is open to talks, but the government must address our concerns around safe working patterns and ensure the contract recognises the long, intense and unsocial hours which junior doctors do."

Dr Iain Chorlton, chairman at NHS Kernow which commissions care for hospitals in Cornwall, said: "Contingency plans are in place locally to minimise any potential disruption to patients and ensure that safety and care is maintained, during the planned national industrial action by junior doctors.

"Emergency and essential care will continue for patients when they need it."

Talks led by the conciliation body Acas will resume on Thursday, but if the government fails to reach an agreement with doctors two more strikes are planned.

The first will be another emergency care only strike, beginning at 8am on Tuesday, January 26 and running until 8am on Thursday, January 28.

Following that there will be a full withdrawal of labour from 8am to 5pm on Wednesday, February 10.