WHETHER you have promised to lose weight, quit smoking or ditch the booze in 2014, Southampton GPs are ready to offer a helping hand.

Dr Steve Townsend, chair of NHS Southampton City Clinical Commissioning Group, is urging residents to seek the help of the many health services on offer to help when struggling to keep those New Year’s resolutions.

He said: “Deciding to improve your lifestyle can seem a bit daunting, but making the decision to change is often the most difficult bit.

“You are never too old to make changes to your lifestyle, so if you’re feeling a bit washed out after the festivities, take a step back to see if the time is right to start making those changes.

“The good news is that you don’t have to do it alone – help from your local NHS is always on hand as you take steps to improve your health.

“If you want advice about your lifestyle, you can ring your GP surgery and ask for a lifestyle check, which will include a blood pressure check, and further tests and advice tailored to your needs.”