PEOPLE across the regionare being urged to use 999 for an ambulance only when necessary.

Yorkshire Ambulance Service NHS Trust wants people to only use the emergency number when it is obvious that someone has a serious or life-threatening illness or injury.

Interim director of operations Dr David Macklin said: “The service has received hundreds of 999 calls this week for seasonal-related illnesses and incidents and we are treating a lot of patients with breathing difficulties as a result of cold and viruses.

“As we approach a busy weekend of pre-Christmas celebrations and office parties we expect there to be a significant influx of calls to alcohol-related incidents. These calls are in addition to other medical emergencies such as injuries from road traffic collisions, heart attacks and strokes.

“Whilst many people do use our emergency service appropriately, some callers could be helped by other more appropriate healthcare services.”

Anyone needing advice and treatment for non-emergencies should consider visiting a pharmacist or GP surgery, a call to NHS 111 or visiting an urgent care centre.