ELDERLY people in Bury are being advised not to be left out in the cold.

Nurse advisers at NHS Direct is re-inforcing the message that the Government offers free flu immunisations to people aged 65 and over.

Pensioners or those concerned about an older relative or friend can phone the 24-hour health helpline on 0845 4647to find out where they can get a flu jab.

Joanne Royle, director of NHS Direct for Greater Manchester and Cheshire, said: "Usually flu is not life threatening.

"However, there are certain high risk groups such as the elderly and those with a heart or lung disease, diabetics and people with kidney failure that need to take extra care."