GPs in Wyre Forest are encouraging people with long-term health issues to keep medicine cabinets fully stocked to ensure they are ready for any fast-changing winter weather.

Residents living with chronic conditions such as diabetes, respiratory disease, heart disease, kidney or liver disease and neurological disease - are particularly vulnerable when the temperatures drop.

Venturing out in extremely cold weather can easily make an existing illness worse, which makes it all the more important to stock up on medicine while you can.

Alongside regular medication, a well-stocked medicine cabinet should include a first aid kit, pain relief, oral rehydration salts and anti-diarrhoea tablets.

If you are already on medication, make sure you are not going to run out. You can contact your GP surgery about registering for GP online services, which will enable you to request repeat prescriptions online.

If you are not sure which over-the-counter medicines to take with your regular medication, you can contact your local pharmacist for advice.

Dr Clare Marley, chair and clinical lead for NHS Wyre Forest Clinical Commissioning Group, said: "At this time of year the weather can quickly turn from being mild and pleasant to becoming bitterly cold, and if you are not adequately prepared for a cold snap you may find yourself stuck at home without the provisions you need to stay warm and well.

"Our advice to people with long-term illnesses in Wyre Forest is to check their medicine cabinets are supplied with everyday remedies for minor winter illnesses as well as any regular medication they may require for their condition.

"It is also a good idea to make sure kitchen cupboards are well stocked with nutritious food, too."

Dr Marley added: "We would also recommend contacting a friend or family member to see if they would be available to help you in case you get stuck at home without something you need.

"That way, you can be fully prepared should the weather take a turn for the worse and it is difficult to venture outdoors."

For more information about staying well this winter, visit nhs.uk/stayingwell.