A LEADING Hampshire doctor has urged people on repeat medication to check their supplies at home as we approach the new year.

With New Years’ Day on a Sunday this year, Monday, January 2 will also be a bank holiday, with many pharmacies either closed or having reduced opening hours.

Deputy chief medical officer (primary and local care) for the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Integrated Care Board Dr Tim Cooper said: “We would just like to urge people to plan ahead to check they have enough medicine to last over the New Year period and the days beyond.

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“If your medicine is going to run out in the next ten days, we would advise you to get your order in now to allow for the festive pharmacy closures – as it can take up to five days for orders to be processed through the system during normal opening times.”

Several pharmacies will be closed or operating reduced hours over the New Year period.

Patients are advised to check with their pharmacy before they travel or visit the NHS England website for updates.

Pharmacy opening hours can be found on the NHS England website: england.nhs.uk/south-east/our-work/pharmacy-opening-hours/.