THE number of people visiting Evesham’s Minor Injuries Unit has increased during the recent cold snap.

Staff at the hospital have reported the unit has been slightly busier than usual dealing with patients injured through slips and falls.

Meanwhile, Great Western Ambulance Service is reassuring people it is well prepared if more severe weather heads this way.

Since last winter, the service has acquired several 4x4 vehicles and continues to work closely with voluntary organisations such as St John Ambulance and the Red Cross, as well as other 4x4 groups.

Tim Stockings, associate director of field operations, said: “Building on the experience of the previous two winters, we are better prepared than ever.

“However, we would also urge the people of our region to do what they can to support us in making sure our resources are available as quickly as possible to patients with genuine medical emergencies.”

Residents can help reduce the demand on emergency services by considering other methods of accessing treatment, checking regularly on elderly and vulnerable neighbours and ensuring they wear plenty of warm clothes, as well as limiting the amount of alcohol they drink at Christmas parties.

Drivers are also urged to check forecasts and road conditions before heading out on journeys, perform maintenance checks and consider if their journey is really necessary.