PENSIONERS are eing targeted in a winter anti-flu campaign.

The borough's family docal doctors and nurses will swing into action at the end of the month.

Last year's campaign resulted in two-thirds of people aged over 65 in the borough being vaccinated.

Local health bosses are hoping the uptake will be even higher this year, saying that a quarter of all winter hospital admissions could be avoided by more people having the jab.

Dr Peter Elton, Bury's director of public health, said: "I would urge everyone aged over 65 and those at risk, with diabetes, heart disease and respiratory illness to get themselves immunised against flu from the start of October, before the winter months.

"Many older and frail people are simply not strong enough to fight off a bad attack of flu, perhaps on top of other conditions and ailments.

"Flu immunisation can literally be a life-saver."

Dr Derek Fletcher, chairman of Bury's professional executive committee, said: "As a GP I urge all my patients aged over 65 and those with chronic conditions to take the opportunity to protect themselves every winter against flu by claiming their free flu jab.

"Health workers should also consider having a jab not only to protect themselves but also their patients".

During the awareness campaign, letters will be sent to the elderly.

Residents at residential care homes will be vaccinated and arrangements will be made for district nurses to visit the elderly at home.