High level of calls for ambulance

Ambulance chiefs urged people only to call 999 in an emergency

The ambulance service which covers Merseyside, Lancashire, Cumbria and Greater Manchester has had an "unprecedented" number of 999 calls.

The North West Ambulance Service said the number of calls received so far this winter had been higher than ever.

A spokesman said the service had increased its resource levels and staff were working extremely hard.

But it is urging people to only call 999 if absolutely necessary so as to help those most at risk.

'Healthcare choices'

The service's chief executive, John Burnside, said: "The winter period is always a busy time for the NHS and the ambulance service in particular, with a significant increase in calls over this period.

"However, this year, we are experiencing extremely high levels of 999 calls compared with the same time last year."

He added: "The service has increased its resource levels to prepare for the winter period and our staff are working extremely hard to make sure that our patients receive a speedy and safe response, throughout these months.

"There are a number of healthcare choices available to members of the public suffering from illness, which may not require the need for an ambulance."

People are being urged not to call paramedics unless someone is suspected of having a heart attack or a stroke, or is unconscious, has a serious wound or head injury or is struggling to breathe.