The North East Ambulance Service, and its partners, have urged the public to use NHS services wisely in the run-up to Christmas and New Year.
The service anticipates a particularly busy period around Black Eye Friday, Christmas, and the New Year.
Stu Holliday, head of emergency, preparedness, resilience, and response at the service, said: "When someone needs our service, we want to have the right resources available to respond.
"Winter is always busy for health services but particularly over the festive period and the public can help us protect the services for those who need it the most.
"We want everyone to have a good time, but don’t ruin your fun by ending up in the back of an ambulance."
He urged people to use 999 and A&E for emergencies only.
Dr Neil O’Brien, GP and chief medical officer for the NHS North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB), said: "This time of year is traditionally the busiest time for our NHS and emergency services, so they will be very stretched."
He added: "If you are unwell then it is vital that you seek medical help if you need it but think carefully about which service you choose."
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