People needing medication to treat health conditions are urged to contact their GPs or pharmacists before the Christmas holidays.

GP practices in Dacorum, Hertsmere, St Albans, and Harpenden will close at 6.30pm on Friday December 22 and re-open on Wednesday December 27 at 8am.

They will also close on January 1, 2018.

For urgent medical help call NHS111, and emergencies 999.

Dr Nicholas Small, chairman of Herts Valleys Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “It’s important for you to remember that most GP surgeries and pharmacies need at least 48 hours’ notice to prepare repeat prescriptions.

“Please send a little time double-checking to make sure that you have all the medication you need for Christmas and the new year.

“Do get in touch with your GP surgery now if your prescription is due to run out soon.

“Don’t get caught out by not having enough medication and risk having to queue up at a pharmacy that is open for a limited number of hours during the holiday season.

“It might be a good idea to also stock up over-the-counter medicines for colds, coughs, and an upset stomach as well.

“NHS111 is a really important service and we are asking people to call the number if they need urgent advice or care.”