PEOPLE are being reminded that GP surgeries in Worcestershire will be closed on Friday, April 6, and Monday, April 9, for the Easter bank holiday break.

The urgent primary care service for a GP or dentist outside normal surgery hours will be available by phoning 0845 609 0669 or by contacting your surgery on the usual number.

Patients are also being reminded only to visit accident and emergency departments in critical or life-threatening situations.

Clive Walsh, director of operations at Worcestershire Acute Hospitals Trust said: "Easter can be a period of increased pressure for hospital services, and the people of Worcestershire can help us by using our accident and emergency departments only when they really need to - when they have had a serious accident or if they have a serious illness.

"For people who do not need the services of an A&E unit, but do need some treatment or advice, there is a wide range of services locally throughout the holiday period, including NHS Direct, out of hours primary care services and minor injury units."

The primary care trust has set out a seven point plan to point patients in the right direction.

l Prepare yourself - keep a well stocked medicine cabinet l Call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 - confidential expert health advice 24 hours a day.

l Visit your local chemist - advice on medication and how to look after yourself, without an appointment.

l If you need a doctor while the surgery is closed at Easter phone 0845 609 0669.

l Visit a minor injury unit for wounds, sprains, strains, possible fractures, minor burns and infections.

l Visit accident and emergency for critical or life threatening situations.

l Dial 999 for an ambulance for emergencies (eg severe chest pain, loss of consciousness).