ROYAL Surrey County Hospital is advising people to use A&E wisely over the festive season.

During the winter months, emergency departments experience an increased demand for their services making it even more vital that they are kept free for those patients who really need it.

Jake Hellier, the Royal Surrey’s clinical site manager, said: “In the run up to Christmas and new year, help keep Royal Surrey’s A&E for those who really need it. Those patients who arrive in A&E and urgently need our help will be prioritised and those who come into the department with minor injuries or illnesses may therefore face a long wait.

“If you feel unwell and are unable to manage at home or a long-standing condition flares up, don’t forget your GP services are available outside of surgery hours.

“You will usually be directed to an out-of-hours service or advised to call NHS 111. For diarrhoea, runny noses, painful cough, sore throat, hangovers, skin rashes or a headache, try your pharmacist first.

“There will be some pharmacies open on the bank holidays, but you are advised to call and check.”