WYRE Forest residents and parents of children who are at risk from flu are being urged to take advantage of free vaccinations available this winter.

Those considered "at risk" includes anyone with asthma, diabetes, a serious heart, chest or kidney condition and people over the age of 65.

Patients can make appointments with their GPs for the vaccination, which takes two minutes to administer.

Dr Richard Harling, consultant in public health at Wyre Forest Primary Care Trust, said: "With between 3,000 and 4,000 deaths each year attributable to the complications of flu, the message is clear - do not wait until there is an epidemic.

"We are urging those at risk to get a flu jab - even if they had one last year.

"The influenza virus is always changing, so last year's vaccine will not protect you," he added.