A top pharmacist has called on the public to order their repeat prescriptions in good time for the August bank holiday.

Karen O'Brien, chief pharmacist for the north west region, advised that any repeat prescriptions due in the days over the August bank holiday should be ordered by Wednesday, August 14.

Ms O'Brien's advice seeks to prevent a repeat of last year's surge in calls to the NHS 111 phone service over the bank holiday weekend.

NHS 111 received 1,635 calls about repeat prescriptions during the period, almost double the previous weekend's call volume of 879.

Due to limited opening hours, with many pharmacies closed on Monday, August 26, obtaining medicines at short notice during the holiday may be challenging this year.

Ms O’Brien said: "Keeping medicine cabinets stocked, knowing when GP practices are open, and planning for repeat prescriptions will ensure you can make the most of the bank holiday weekend.

"Running out of your usual medication can have serious consequences, especially if you use them to control a heart condition, breathing problems, or have a health condition such as diabetes."

The NHS App can be used to order repeat prescriptions, and also allows people to book and cancel appointments at their GP practice, view their health record, and search trusted NHS information and advice on hundreds of conditions and treatments.

GP practices' websites can also be used to order repeat prescriptions.

Over the May bank holiday, urgent and emergency care services will be open.

Call 999 or attend accident and emergency services in the event of a life- or limb-threatening emergency.

For non-emergency health advice, visit NHS 111 online or call 111.