Tomorrow junior doctors at Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust (MTW) go on their fourth strike in a row over pay and working conditions.

Non-urgent appointments have been cancelled as the health workers walk out over the imposition of a contract they have branded unfair and damaging for patients.

Senior consultants and other non-junior doctors will take over duties in A&E and other emergency care services from 8am tomorrow for two days.

However planned strikes for April 26 and 27 will see te full withdrawal of labour by junior doctors represented by the British Medical Association between 8am and 5pm on both days.

Maidstone, oncology registrar Dr Nicola Davis, said: "There will be picket lines at both Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells hospitals again. There also be a free lifesaving skills for parents event in Tunbridge Wells on Thursday which is going to be very well attended."

MTW have rearranged surgeries and appointments in an attempt to minimize the disruption to patients.

Angela Gallagher, the Trust’s chief operating officer, said: “We will monitor events very closely during the period 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.”

Junior doctors are objecting to a new contract in England to create a seven-day service. Under the new contract Saturday pay will be paid at the basic rate in return for a blanket pay rise.