PRINCESS Margaret Hospital today warned people: "Don't poison yourself this Christmas".

The hospital deals with patients every year who are the victims of food poisoning from the Christmas turkey or a festive buffet.

But infection control nurse Sue Thompson says most people have only themselves to blame.

Sue says harmful bacteria loves Christmas and can cause food poisoning anything from a stomach upset to serious illness.

People are so distracted by the excitement of presents and other festive events that they forget the rules of cleanliness in the kitchen.

Sue said: "There are several reasons why food poisoning is particularly prevalent at Christmas.

"One reason is that fridges often become overcrowded, which means that food is not being kept as cool as it should be air needs to circulate to keep food cool.

"A simple message is that we need to keep cold food cold and hot food hot.

"People also need to maintain basic hygiene like always washing hands and ensuring there are clean surfaces.

"People should remember that food should not be left out for a long time before consumption.

"Buffets are quite popular at this time of year but food should not be left out for hours on end don't put food out at 10am if you're not eating until 3pm."

The hospital experiences a rise in food poisoning twice a year at Christmas and when the barbecue season starts.

Symptoms of food poisoning will usually show within 18 to 24 hours.

People suffering symptoms should stop eating and keep hydrated with lots of fluids.

Those most at risk of food poisoning are young children, pregnant women and the elderly.

Sue said that if any of those groups think they have got food poisoning to contact their GP.