Calls to the NHS non-emergency line rose significantly earlier this month to the highest over a week period since the early stages of the pandemic.

NHS England figures show patients called the North West 111 helpline 76,993 times in the week to December 11 – up by 42 per cent on the 54,126 calls made the week before.

Of these, 32,330 - 42 per cent - were answered, while 6,870 were answered within 60 seconds.

It meant just 21 per cent of the answered calls were within in a minute – well below the NHS target of 95 per cent.

The surge in people calling 111 has been described as “understandable with concerns about winter viruses – including strep A – a top priority for the public," by Professor Sir Stephen Powis, NHS national medical director.

Cllr Susan Baines, Bolton Council cabinet member for wellbeing, said: “Every year we get lots of group A strep infections and they’re usually mild.

“Most children will be fine after a couple of days with plenty of fluids and letting paracetamol work its magic, if they can have it.

“Some children have been extremely ill and have died and that’s terrible, but it’s about being vigilant and aware and knowing when your own child isn’t acting normal.

“But if you are anxious and you need reassurance then seek that.”

Following the increased calls to the NHS non-emergency number, Professor Powis has urged people to also use the NHS 111 online services.

Cllr Baines agrees, however was keen to stress that calling 111 is still an option as “that’s what they are there for”.

She also says that there are plenty of other ways people can get guidance too.

She said: “There is lots of help online for people. The NHS website has lots of good advice on there.

“In the first instance ring your GP. If there’s no joy, you can always go into your local pharmacy and speak to a chemist. They are very well trained and knowledgeable.”

“Going to A&E is an absolute last resort.”

People can visit 111.nhs.uk to see if their queries can be answered without the need for a phonecall.

If you have a story or something you would like to highlight in the community, please email me at lewis.finney@newsquest.co.uk or DM me on Twitter @lewisfinney18.