Health experts have advised patients to only attend essential medical appointments as the adverse weather conditions continue.

Barnet Primary Care Trust (PCT) has issued advice to staff recommending they prioritise their patients and to contact patients if they are unable to make home visits.

Some clinics in the borough have been closed because of the heavy snow fall.

A spokesman for the PCT said: “Unfortunately all non-essential clinics or appointments at Edgware Community Hospital, and Finchley Memorial Hospital have been cancelled.

“Patients are advised to contact the relevant department later in the week to re-book their appointment.”

Nurses have also been told to only make essential journeys and all office based staff are advised to go home as soon as possible, unless they are required to co-ordinate services.

The NHS has recommended people, especially the elderly, keep themselves warm to reduce the risk of illness.

”It's very important to protect against the cold,” added an NHS spokesman.

“Around half of all deaths that are caused by cold weather are due to heart disease or stroke. A drop in body temperature contributes to these deaths by thickening (clotting) the blood and restricting circulation.

“During colder weather, there is also an increased risk of injury from falls, and people are more prone to seasonal illnesses, such as influenza.”

He advised keeping the home warm at a minimum of 21 degrees Celsius and making sure heating systems are working safely and effectively.

Pharmacist Ajit Shah, of Oakleigh Pharmacy, in Oakleigh Road North, said he was telling customers due to pick up prescriptions to stay at home.

“I have told them I will try to drop in their medication later, or they could try to get neighbours to come and pick it up,” he said.

“It is crucial they continue to take their medication but elderly people shouldn’t risk injury by trying to come out.

“They need to take care of themselves and not worry about the heating bills, which is often a concern for them.”

David Nesbitt, a physiotherapist who works in the pharmacy, said it is important people keep themselves active during the cold spell, and avoid sitting around the home for long periods.

He added: “I would encourage people to get up every hour or so to walk around their home to stay active and get the blood flowing. Even just climbing the stairs is a good form of exercise.

“The cold weather can aggravate arthritis and cause sufferers to get stiff if they don’t get up and move about, but they don’t want to be going out and slipping up in the snow.”

Residents concerned about heating costs can contact The Home Heat Helpline, a fuel poverty helpline which offers support in covering winter fuel bills, on 0800 33 66 99.

Visit the Barnet PCT website for further health advice and important contact numbers.