THE NHS in Wiltshire is reminding patients to keep A&E and 999 for emergencies over the winter period and is urging people to choose the most appropriate care for their illnesses.

Colder weather brings increased demand on NHS services, particularly from elderly and vulnerable patients, and leads to an increase in the number of people being admitted to hospital as an emergency.

The NHS Wiltshire Clinical Commissioning Group has produced a list of tips to help people plan and ensure they are able to receive the most appropriate and timely treatment during winter.

These include ensuring people have enough over-the-counter medicines to treat coughs, colds, cuts and scratches along with repeat prescriptions for ongoing conditions.

The group also advises people to seek early advice from their GP or pharmacist, particularly if elderly, to prevent an illness becoming more serious.