Don't forget about the walk-in centre.

This is the message from one of the top bosses at the same organisation that is considering closing the much-needed city facility.

Heading into a period of bank holidays and with another spell of junior doctor strikes looming, NHS leaders are bracing themselves for another surge in demand for emergency services.

And as they search for ways of making sure A&E departments run as smoothly as possible, one of NHS Norfolk and Waveney's top directors reminded people they can still use the same centre they may close down.

Norwich Evening News: Dr Frankie Swords, executive medical director at NHS Norfolk and WaveneyDr Frankie Swords, executive medical director at NHS Norfolk and Waveney (Image: Queen Elizabeth Hospital)

Frankie Swords, executive medical director at NHS Norfolk and Waveney, said: "The walk-in centre is still there if you need it.

"It is important people understand that emergency departments are there and available for people that really need them, but if it is less urgent, the walk-in centre is an option."

It comes days after the closure of a consultation into the centre's future - with more than 3,000 people handing back surveys sharing their views on the facility, which the Evening News has been campaigning to save.

Norwich Evening News: The Evening News is campaigning to save the Norwich walk-in centreThe Evening News is campaigning to save the Norwich walk-in centre (Image: Newsquest)

But Dr Swords went on to urge people to "think 111" first if their health needs are not urgent enough to warrant a trip to A&E.

She added: "That is what the walk-in centre is there for, but NHS 111 can almost always give you what need whereas the walk-in centre can only offer you so much.

"Calling 111 really is the best option if you need to connect with a medical professional. It can arrange for face-to-face appointments, home visits or give you an arrival time if you do need to go to emergency departments."

Norwich Evening News: The Norwich walk-in centre, in Rouen Road, is under threat of closure The Norwich walk-in centre, in Rouen Road, is under threat of closure (Image: Denise Bradley/Newsquest)

Dr Swords also urged people to make sure they are up-to-date with their medication needs ahead of the Easter bank holiday - particularly if they are on regular prescriptions.