STAFF from Widnes NHS walk-in centre treated more than 1,400 patients over a busy festive period.

The centre, which is run by Bridgewater Community Healthcare NHS Trust, treated a total of 52,110 patients in 2013 – 1,478 of which were dealt with over Christmas.

By offering fast and easy access to treatment without an appointment for minor injuries and ailments, the centre helps to ease the increasing pressure on local A&E departments.

Elaine McDowell, walk-in centre clinical services manager at Bridgewater, said: “From minor burns and allergic reactions to injuries and infections, Widnes NHS Walk-in Centre has a team of specially trained and experienced nurses on hand seven days a week to treat a range of non-serious conditions.

“Our staff have worked extremely hard over Christmas and the past year to provide high quality care, treating on average 143 patients a day.

"We are keen to relieve some of the pressure on our local accident and emergency departments who need to prioritise patients with more serious and life-threatening conditions.

“As a result we want to encourage more people to consider visiting the centre in the coming year if they need assessment quickly for a minor injury or ailment.”

Widnes NHS walk-in centre is based at The Health Care Resource Centre, Oaks Place, Caldwell Road, Widnes, WA8 7GD and is open 7am until 10pm Monday to Saturday, and 9am to 10pm on Sundays.

Call the centre direct on 0151 495 5000. For more information, visit bridgewater.nhs.uk/haltonsthelens/widneswalkincentre.