Patients are being reminded of the range of health services available to them while GP practices in Bury are closed over the Easter bank holiday weekend.

GP practices in Bury will be closed tomorrow, which is Good Friday, and on Easter Monday.

Health chiefs are urging people to be responsible by choosing the right service to receive the best and quickest treatment while keeping emergency services free for serious cases.

Dr Kiran Patel, chairman of NHS Bury Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) said ailments like coughs, flu-like symptoms and upset stomachs can often be treated by having a well-stocked medicine cabinet while a pharmacy can provide expert advice on common illnesses and injuries and the medicines to treat them.

Dr Patel said: “Where patients need advice, information and treatment, there is a range of services and resources available, from online resources to walk-in services with no appointment needed.

“Accident and emergency (A&E) departments are for patients who are extremely unwell and need urgent medical attention. In an emergency, the A&E will provide the best possible care to patients.”

Bury Urgent Treatment Centre, located at Moorgate Primary Care Centre in Derby Way, is a doctor-led service open every day from 8am until 10pm with no appointment needed.

This is an alternative choice for anyone who cannot get a same-day appointment with their GP but are not suffering from something serious enough to require an A&E visit.

Prestwich Walk-in Centre in Fairfax Road, Prestwich, is a nurse-led service open between 8am and 8pm with no appointment necessary.

For health information online: go to nhs.uk and for fast medical advice dial 111.