THE elderly and vulnerable are being given six tips to beat the cold and keep well as chilly and damp weather is forecast over the next few days.

With the risk of overnight frost over the coming week, South Worcestershire Primary Care Trust said patients with breathing difficulties are more at risk of developing infections and this is particularly so in the cold.

In others, the cold can make blood thicken, increasing blood pressure which may increase the risk of a heart attack or stroke.

The vulnerable are being told to keep warm by ensuring heating is at least 21 degrees Celsius for living areas and 18 degrees Celsius for bedrooms which should have the window closed.

Householders are being urged to check on elderly neighbours and relatives as older people do not always feel the cold and this can be dangerous to their health if their body temperature falls.

The Trust also encourages people to keep active, both indoors and outdoors, and always wear a scarf, hat, gloves and a good overcoat when going outside.

A good breakfast and at least one hot meal a day is recommended to provide energy to keep warm and people taking medication on a regular basis should ensure they have enough to last over the weekend and into next week.