High level of demand for 999 services

They are urging those with a less urgent healthcare need to contact their local pharmacist, visit an NHS walk in centre or make an appointment with their GP.

They have asked anyone suffering with a seasonal ailment such as a sore throat or cold, who are otherwise fit and well, to consider self-care first.

A spokesman said: “During this busy festive period NWAS is doing all it can to provide a high quality service but would be very grateful to the people of the North West if they would only call in a real emergency and consider all the above alternatives first.

“This will enable the service to effectively prioritise those patients who are more vulnerable and in most need of urgent health advice and treatment.”