DOCTORS in Devon are advising residents to make sure their first aid cabinets are fully-stocked in time for the August bank holiday weekend.

Most GP practices are closed from Friday, August 26 until Tuesday, August 30 and many pharmacies will be closed or have limited opening hours on bank holiday Monday (August 29).

Stocking up on plasters, painkillers, antiseptic cream and more means you can deal with grazes and everyday aches and pains quickly at home, saving time and helping to ease pressure on local NHS services, especially hospital emergency departments.

Remember to order any repeat prescriptions early and find out when your local NHS services are open.

If you find you need treatment over the bank holiday weekend, NHS NEW Devon CCG has issued some tips to help you choose the right NHS service:

• Self-care - for minor illnesses, combine medicines for coughs, colds or flu with plenty of rest.

• Pharmacies - pharmacists are trained to help people with minor illnesses and can advise on medicine that can be bought over the counter. In Crediton, Boots is open from 10am to 4pm and Tesco, Wellparks, from 11am to 4pm on bank holiday Monday (August 29).

• NHS 111 – for non-emergency health needs, 24-hours-a-day, see the website: www.nhs.uk or call 111.

• NHS minor injuries unit (MIU) and Walk-in Centres (WICs) - for treatment of minor illnesses or injuries, without an appointment. For details of your nearest MIU or WIC see: www.nhs.uk .