SUFFERERS of colds and sore throats in a North-East town have been urged not to bother their doctor.

People in Hartlepool with minor complaints have instead been asked to go straight to their local chemist.

NHS managers say many people believe they should take GP-prescribed antibiotics for winter ailments.

However, antibiotics do not work on most winter complaints because they are caused by viruses, while antibiotics fight infections caused by bacteria.

Hartlepool GP Dr Andy Downs said: "Taking antibiotics when you don't need them will kill some of the good bacteria that help to keep our bodies healthy."

Patients who do not pay for prescriptions will not be charged by the pharmacy.

People can also get advice and treatment for head lice, hay fever, indigestion, stomach upset, diarrhoea, constipation, thrush, threadworm, athlete's foot, haemorrhoids (piles), stings and bites, nappy rash and mouth ulcers.