PEOPLE are being urged to make the most of the full range of NHS services, if they fall ill or are injured over the festive period.

Health chiefs are encouraging residents of the borough to choose the right help, keeping pressures off busy services.

Families are also being advised to get prepared for Christmas and New Year, for example, by stocking up on medication.

The winter months always see an increased demand on health services, especially GPs and the accident and emergency department at the Royal Bolton Hospital.

People should only go to A&E for critical or life-threatening situations.

There are other alternatives for advice and treatment, often without needing to make an appointment.

Tim Evans, chief executive of NHS Bolton, said: “During the busy winter period and especially over the holiday season it’s important that people use health services wisely to make sure we all get the best from our NHS.”

Website, nhs.uk offers information on all aspects of healthcare and NHS Direct, 0845 46 47, gives patients help around the clock.

Patients can attend the walk-in centre at Lever Chambers Centre for Health, in Ashburner Street, in the town centre, without the need to make an appointment, where they will be seen by an experienced nurse.

It is open Monday to Friday, 8am to 9pm, Saturday, 8.30am to 5.30pm and Sunday, 8.30am to 4pm.

For Christmas and New Year bank holiday opening hours visit bolton.nhs.uk/your-services/out-of-hours-services/walkin_centre.asp.