SOUTHAMPTON residents are being reminded that they can still seek medical attention over the Easter weekend.

GP surgeries will be closed and A&E departments and paramedics are at their busiest over the four-day Easter bank holiday.

The minor injuries unit in the Fanshawe Wing of the Royal South Hants Hospital can provide treatment for a range of minor injuries and illnesses.

The bank holiday hours are from 8am, and the last patient will be accepted at 9.30pm.

They provide assessments and treatments for conditions including suspected broken limbs, minor head injuries, strains and sprains, minor scalds and burns, ear and throat infections, minor skin infections and rashes, minor eye conditions and minor illnesses.

Hospital director Penny Daniels said: "This time of year is always busy.

"People are out and about and accidents happen.

"The weather forecast is set to be warm and we can help with the slips and trips that happen as families enjoy the beach and hampshire countryside.

"With GP surgeries closed for four days, people may also find a niggling sore throat, strain or eye infection becomes worse and needs treatment.

"The centre offers walk-in care with no appointment necessary.

"We can offer NHS patients X-ray facilities and treatment in a relaxed environment.

"Average waiting times are generally significantly shorter than those at A&E, and we are seeing around 100% of patients treated within the Government's targets."

The NHS has made an additional 100,000 GP appointments available across the country over the bank holiday.

The NHS is also encouraging people to take advantage of the range of health services available, including local surgeries, the 111 phone line and website, as well as calling 999 or going to A&£ in an emergency.