ELDERLY residents are to be encouraged to have their flu jabs and learn about ways to beat the winter chill at a series of events taking place in East Durham over the coming months.

Easington Primary Care Trust, local GP practices and Age Concern have teamed up for a tour of the district next month and November in a roadshow that could help save lives among older residents.

The campaign will get under way on Friday, October 1, at Wheatley Hill Community Centre, followed by a further dozen community venues across Easington district.

All the events take place from 10.30am until 2pm, and include a free flu jab for anyone aged over 65, blood pressure checks, advice from dieticians, chiropodists and community pharmacists, keep fit taster sessions and a free lunch, along with extra advice and information.

GP practices, chemists and community venues have been issued with posters and information ahead of the launch of the Keep Healthy This Winter campaign.

Julie Englund, health development specialist for older people at Easington Primary Care Trust, said: "These events are designed to give older people an opportunity to focus on health, promoting activities in anticipation of the cold winter months.

"The events will also provide an opportunity for them to receive their flu jab.

"Older people who catch flu are more likely to be made very unwell by the infection.

"Every year, some people die from the complications of flu and these are mainly older people who have not had the jab. Having the flu jab every year is the best way to reduce your chances of catching flu."