The NHS has reminded people to think about how to find the right NHS service if they feel unwell over the long Bank Holiday weekend.

Residents are advised to check nhs.uk for the opening hours of their local pharmacy and GP surgery, as they often change, and for general health advice.

The pharmacist is an expert in medicines and minor illnesses. Most pharmacists have their own consultation rooms so conversations can take place in private and can advise if something needs attention from a GP, or hospital.

Residents are also reminded to order repeat prescriptions as soon as possible and check with their practice to see if they offer an online service.

For urgent health help that is not a life-threatening emergency call NHS 111. The NHS 111 number is free to call from all phones and is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Dr Nicolas Small, local GP and chair of Herts Valleys Clinical Commissioning Group, said: "We all want to enjoy May Bank Holiday but if you or someone you know feels unwell it is important to use the right NHS service.

"Using the emergency services when you don’t need them delays urgent help for others who are more seriously ill or injured and won’t get you the best treatment for your illness."

Full details of pharmacy opening times on the Bank Holiday in west Hertfordshire are available on the Herts Valleys CCG website www.hertsvalleysccg.nhs.uk.