PEOPLE have been asked to visit their pharmacist first if unwell this Easter.

Health chiefs said pharmacists are the 'go-to service' for residents in East Lancashire and Blackburn with Darwen to access help with common illnesses like coughs and sore throats.

They said they can also help with minor emergencies such as stings and insect bites.

Dr Pervez Muzzafar, a GP in Darwen, said: “Many GP surgeries will be closed over the bank holiday weekend.

"But there’s no appointment necessary when you visit your pharmacist and they can give professional, confidential medical advice straight away.

“Many pharmacies have a private consulting area should you need to talk privately.

"They can also provide a wide range of over-the-counter treatments which are not routinely prescribed on prescription."