The NHS is reminding residents in Shropshire where they can access expert medical treatment to help them stay well over the Christmas and New Year holiday.

NHS Shropshire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) is advising local people to consider the options for healthcare and ensure they are aware of GP practices and pharmacy opening times.

If people need urgent medical help but not emergency care this winter NHS 111 is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, including Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. Simply call 111 for free from your landline or mobile to access advice.

GP surgeries in Shropshire will be closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. However, GP extended access will mean during the Christmas and New Year period Shropshire registered patients will have access to a limited number of routine GP appointments on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. To book one of these appointments please speak to your GP practice during their normal opening hours.

Many pharmacies have limited opening hours between Christmas and New Year so it is important to order and collect any repeat prescription in plenty of time.

Dr Julian Povey, chair of NHS Shropshire CCG, said: “It is important to be prepared for the Christmas and New Year holiday. If you have a prescription check your medication to make sure you have enough for the extended festive break. If you need a repeat prescription organise it now and make sure you pick it up before the busy Christmas period."

Please be aware that the Walk In Centre (Urgent Care Centre) at the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital will be open every day from 8am to 8pm including the bank holidays (Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day) for anyone who needs urgent medical attention if they cannot get an appointment with their own doctor or are not registered with a GP practice. No appointment is necessary.

Opening times in Whitchurch:

Boots, Watergate Street (01948 662060): Open Christmas Day 11am to 12pm, closed Boxing Day, closed New Year's Day.

Green End Pharmacy, Green End (01948 662109):Closed Christmas Day, closed Boxing Day, open New Year's Day 11am to 12pm.

Rowlands Pharmacy, High Street (01948 662813): Closed Christmas Day, open Boxing Day 11am to 12pm, closed New Year's Day.