People are being urged to choose the right NHS service this May bank holiday.

NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight has said that planning ahead and knowing your options can make all the difference.

A full list of pharmacies that will be open during the bank holiday across Hampshire including Southampton has been published by NHS England.

Opening hours may vary, so it is recommended to check your local pharmacy before visiting.

Thanks to the Pharmacy First scheme, many community pharmacies can now offer clinical advice and treatment for common illnesses without the need to see a GP.

These include conditions such as shingles, sore throats, earaches, sinusitis, infected insect bites, impetigo, and uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Dr Tom Bertram, local GP and clinical director for primary and local care at NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight, said: "We know that bank holiday periods often bring increased pressure on our hospitals, with more people seeking urgent and emergency care.

"Community pharmacies can often be the fastest and most convenient way to get help for minor illnesses and injuries.

"Pharmacists can also prescribe medications where appropriate, helping you get the care you need without having to wait for a GP appointment or attend an emergency department.

"If you’re ever unsure about where to go, 111.nhs.uk is available to help direct you to the most appropriate service.

"For parents or carers, the Healthier Together app is a great source of trusted advice and information on a wide range of common childhood illnesses and symptoms.

"We want to make sure everyone gets the right care in the right place, so please make best use of the treatment options available to you."

In addition to pharmacies, urgent treatment centres (UTCs) will be available across the region to help with non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries.

They often have shorter waiting times than emergency departments, making them a faster alternative for many health concerns.

UTCs are located in Andover, Gosport, Lymington, Petersfield, Portsmouth, Southampton, and on the Isle of Wight.

As always, in a medical emergency call 999 or go directly to your nearest emergency department.