IN the often chaotic build up to Christmas, Trafford people are urged to order their prescriptions well before the festivities begin.

Many pharmacies offer reduced opening hours over the holidays and people are urged not to miss out.

Dr Nigel Guest, Trafford GP and Chief Clinical Officer of NHS Trafford Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “Ordering your essential medicines well in time for the holidays means that you have one less thing to think about.

"We don’t want anyone to run out of their medication over Christmas and need hospital treatment when they could be enjoying time with friends and family.

"Because of the bank holidays, and the amount of illnesses circulating at this time of year, your GP practice and pharmacy may be busier than normal. This means that you can also save yourself some time, and help the NHS, by ordering your repeat prescriptions as early as you can.”

Residents are urged not to go to A&E or call 999 If the case is not an emergency. People can help the NHS during these busy times by making sure they ‘choose well’ and consider using a pharmacist, GP, or NHS111.

* Anyone who needs treatment, can also consider using the urgent care centre, walk-in centre or minor injuries unit. Anyone interested in finding out more should visit traffordccg.nhs.uk.