NHS bosses are encouraging people to make sure they have all they need for the bank holiday by picking up repeat prescriptions in order to prevent them from running out of essential medicine and becoming ill.

People are also reminded they can get expert medical advice on a range of common illnesses at their pharmacist during the Bank Holiday weekend and to stay well in the hot weather.

Dr Paul Twomey, Medical Director for NHS England in Yorkshire and the Humber, said:  “It is important to order repeat prescriptions in plenty of time and stock up on medicine cabinet essentials so they can easily be accessed during the bank holiday.

“While some GP practices will be open across Yorkshire and Humber, we are recommending where appropriate people consider other available services including local pharmacies, walk in centres and the NHS 111 service.”

As well as ensuring you have all the medications you need ahead of the weekend, people are also encouraged to discuss with elderly relatives to make them aware that they may need to check their stocks.

Some local pharmacies will be open on the Spring Bank Holiday Monday where patients can get a range of advice and treatments. Pharmacies also stock sun blocks and creams as well as treatments for sun burn which people would be wise to use on what is forecast to be a hot day.

To find which pharmacy is open near you this Spring Bank Holiday Monday click here.