SOUTHEND’S NHS leaders are reminding people of services available this bank holiday weekend.

Rather than ring the emergency services, or going to A&E, people are advised to use other health services such as NHS 111, their local pharmacist, GP, or walk-in centre.

Pharmacists can provide free expert health advice, with no appointment necessary, on everyday illnesses and answer questions about prescribed medicines.

Dr Paul Husselbee, clinical chief officer of Southend Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “It has been well publicised in recent weeks that emergency health services in Southend have been treating a very high volume of patients.

“Demand for emergency services is likely to remain high over the bank holiday weekend, which could lead to long waits.”

NHS 111 is available for help and advice 24-hours a day, seven days a week including bank holidays.

Simply call 111 from a landline.

Pharmacies across Southend and Rochford will be open on Monday, including those at selected Boots stores, as well as Tesco, Sainsburys and Asda supermarkets.