PEOPLE suffering minor ailments over the Christmas holidays should head for the chemist.

Prescribing advisor for West Wiltshire Primary Care Trust, Henryk Kwiatkowski said: "Pharmacists are a trained source of medical advice who provide a free service that is available immediately.

"Unlike doctors, pharmacists are available straight away and can advise people on a variety of ailments."

From coughs and colds to hangovers and headaches, pharmacists are thought to be a good source of advice, although people suffering from more severe symptoms are urged to contact their doctor straight away.

Anyone suffering from critical conditions such as heavy blood loss, suspected broken bones, deep wounds, breathing difficulties, or unconsciousness is recommended to contact their doctor or local accident and emergency department.

Mr Kwiatkowski said: "We don't want to discourage people to go to their GP, particularly if they are suffering from serious complaints, merely to recognise that pharmacists are a worthwhile source of advice."

Major accidents or illnesses can happen at any time and it's often worth being prepared and keeping some first aid equipment and remedies in a safe place to treat minor complaints and accidents.

Basic home first aid kits should contain; Ibuprofen, Paracetamol (children under 12 and people with asthma should not take aspirin), Calpol, Ibuprofen syrup, mild laxatives, anti-diarrhoeal medicines, rehydration mixture, indigestion remedy, travel-sickness tablets, sunscreen, sunburn treatment, tweezers and sharp scissors, thermometer, plasters, bandages, cotton wool, elastic bandages and dressings.

Anyone concerned about his or her health at any time can also telephone NHS Direct.

This telephone service is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by nurses and health professionals who can give a range of advice and information.

Calls are charged at local rates and all information given is kept safe and secure.

Contact NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

As well as the NHS Direct Service there are also NHS Walk-in centres. The closest walk-in centre is in Henry Street, Bath.

You can also visit the website at www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk which provides lots of helpful hints on general wellbeing, as well as a useful step by step guide of how to treat yourself when you're not feeling well.

Also available is an NHS Direct self-help guide, which works alongside the phone service and contains advice on common symptoms.