The North West's medical director has appealed to the public to use NHS services wisely this bank holiday weekend.

The plea comes as the healthcare body traditionally experiences an increase in demand over these periods, particularly in A&E departments and the 111 phone line.

Dr Michael Gregory, regional medical director at NHS England North West, has advised the public to use the online service, 111.nhs.uk, for quick health advice initially.

Dr Gregory said: "This weekend is another extremely busy time for NHS staff and we are extremely grateful for them working tirelessly over this bank holiday weekend and the days after to ensure all those that need care receive it.

"The public can help us by using the right service for their needs, including 111 online for quick and easy medical help."

The online 111 service functions similarly to the phone line and permits users to obtain a call back from a professionally-trained clinician or nurse, secure an appointment in A&E, or garner advice.

However, the service does not cater to children under five, for whom parents or caregivers should use the 111 phone line.

Paul Johnstone, 111 senior service delivery manager at North West Ambulance Service, said: "In the event of a life or limb-threatening emergency people should always continue to call 999 or attend A&E, but for non-emergency health needs the public should make 111.nhs.uk their first port of call.

"It helps to direct people to the right service quickly, as well as providing medical advice.

"It’s just one of the ways that we are trying to get people to the right service the first time whilst keeping urgent and emergency services free for the most seriously ill and injured patients."

Services such as obtaining guidance on symptoms, finding general health information, securing an emergency supply of prescribed medicine, acquiring a repeat prescription and scheduling emergency dental appointments can be accessed through the 111 online service.

Also, local community pharmacists provide advice and treatment for common conditions like sinusitis, sore throat, earache, infected insect bites, impetigo, shingles, and uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women under the Pharmacy First initiative.

Advisably, 999 should be called for severe cases like heart attack symptoms, stroke, difficulty breathing, heavy bleeding, seizures and sudden drastic swellings.