PEOPLE who fall ill or have an injury this Christmas can rest easy knowing help is at hand.

The 24-hour helpline, NHS Direct, offering information on GP and pharmacy opening times, as well as the chance to ask the advice of fully-trained nurses is available by ringing 0845 46 47.

Pharmarcists will be able to help with minor ailments and supply medicines while shops, supermarkets and petrol stations all carry basic medicines such as pain killers and cold remedies.

GP surgeries will be open as usual, except on Bank Holidays. If closed, ring the surgery for an out-of-hours service giving details of the nearest centre where individuals can arrange to see a GP.

Home visits can also be arranged for those unable to travel.

An NHS walk-in centre is also available seven days a week from 7am to 10pm at Manchester Airport offering fast access to advice and treatment from nurses.

And social services can also be contacted by phoning NHS Direct.

People are urged to only use their nearest accident and emergency hospital in an emergency to allow seriously ill patients to receive proper treatment.

The advice is included in a leaflet sent out by Salford and Trafford Health Authority.