REVELLERS across Wiltshire celebrating the start of the festive season this Friday have been urged to take care.

Local NHS staff have asked them to take care of themselves and their friends to help avoid unnecessary visits to hospital.

As pubs, bars, clubs and restaurants gear up for the annual celebration of the last working Friday before Christmas – commonly known as Mad Friday or even Black Eye Friday –those joining the festivities are being asked to celebrate responsibly and know how to get urgent medical help if they need it.

Jane Whichello, South Western Ambulance Service’s Deputy County Commander for Wiltshire, said: “Everyone likes to let off steam and celebrate at this time of year – NHS staff included! Enjoy yourselves sensibly and remember to look out for those you are partying with too.

“Our under-pressure services are already stretched to breaking point andIf everyone can do their bit to help themselves, it will help us to make sure our services are available for those who need them most.”

“NHS staff should be spending their time helping patients in genuine need of urgent medical attention rather than dealing with alcohol-related accidents that could be easily avoided with a bit of planning and foresight.”

With the area’s hospitals, Accident and Emergency departments and ambulance services already under pressure, staff at NHS organisations across the region are asking everyone planning to celebrate tonight to keep four things in mind:

• Intersperse any alcohol intake with regular glasses of water and take responsibility for yourself. Nobody wants to end up in hospital just before Christmas because they overdid it.

• Make sure you know in advance how you are getting home. Planning ahead on this busy night of the year can help you avoid getting into difficulties at the end of a fun night.

• Look after each other. If you’ve had less to drink than the people you are celebrating with, make sure they are safe and are able to get home.

• If you do run into problems and need urgent medical help, call NHS 111 to speak to a fully trained adviser. They will assess your situation and offer the right medical advice, and if you need an ambulance they will send one.