AMBULANCES have been inundated with an unprecedented number of 999 calls in the last week, and staff are now calling on people to save 999 calls for emergencies only.

Dr David Macklin, executive director of operations at the Yorkshire Ambulance Trust, said: “We are continuing to receive a very high volume of 999 calls this week for seasonal illnesses and incidents and we are treating a lot of patients with breathing difficulties and other related conditions.

“As we approach a busy weekend we expect there to be a significant influx of calls for alcohol-related incidents. These calls are in addition to other emergencies such as injuries from road traffic collisions, heart attacks and strokes.

“Whilst many people do use our emergency service appropriately, some callers could be helped by other more appropriate healthcare services.

“We ask people who are out and about to be conscious of how much alcohol they are drinking, eat beforehand and make sure they plan ahead for transport home.”

Dr Macklin also thanked the public for their support during the tough period, and staff for their hard work.

He urged anyone needing non-emergency treatment or advice to go to a pharmacist or GP, call NHS 111, or go to an urgent care centre rather than calling 999.