Junior doctors across Kent are set to go on another 24-hour walkout today as part of the national dispute over working pay and conditions.

It will be the third time the medics have gone on strike following the breakdown of the latest round of talks between the Department of Health and their union the British Medical Association.

In a change from the original plans, doctors who work below consultant level at Medway Maritime Hospital will continue to provide emergency cover for the A & E department.

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But the walk-out from 8am may lead to some non-urgent operations and out-patients’ appointments being scrapped.

A Medway NHS Trust spokeswoman said ongoing emergency team meetings have taken place since the threat of action emerged at the end of last year.

She said: “As always, our patients’ safety will be of paramount importance.”

But the dispute has divided opinions in Kent.

Gareth Johnson, MP for Dartford said: “I hope we can find a resolution to this because there is no reduction in junior doctors pay or any increase in the time they are expected to work.

"The inconvenience to patients is very regrettable.”

Omer Jamall, 22, a medical student from Dartford: “I find the constant lies and misinterpretation of data from Jeremy Hunt a complete disgrace.

"There is also no way he can accuse the BMA of not negotiating when he is not willing to budge on 25 out of 26 points in the contract.

"I completely support the medical strike action taken up by junior doctors as it is in the best interests of the public and the future of the NHS.”

Abishek Rolands, 23, also a medical student from Dartford, said: “The changes to the contract mean that junior doctors will be even more overworked than they already are and are more likely to make mistakes.

"Jeremy Hunt is gambling with patient safety, misleading the public and destroying morale within the NHS.”

Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust said it is drafting in consultants and other non-trainee doctors to help run all emergency services, including A&E.

Some non-urgent operations and outpatient appointments have been cancelled.

Angela Gallagher, Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust chief operating officer, said: "We will monitor events very closely during the day to ensure that we have the appropriate cover provided in all areas and we are very grateful for the support and collaborative working from all groups of staff in preparation for this day."