ONE of the North-East's best known pensioners, Newcastle United boss Bobby Robson, is urging older people to protect themselves against the flu bug this winter.

The Magpies' chief is backing a campaign by six health authorities in the region to increase the number of people aged 65 and over - and others at risk due to health problems - to have the flu jab.

"I've had the injection myself in previous years and will be having it again this year. Nobody wants to be out of action for ten days with flu - it's such a debilitating illness," said Mr Robson.

This is the first year that immunisation against flu is being aimed at everyone aged 65 and over. In previous years the vaccine has only been recommended for everyone 75 and over.

Vaccination is also recommended for people who have heart disease, chronic chest conditions, kidney disease, diabetes and people with weakened immune systems.

Health bosses are particularly keen to immunise people living in residential and nursing homes, places where outbreaks can often effect large numbers of vulnerable people.

Special clinics are being arranged in doctors' surgeries across the region and nurses are working with staff in residential and nursing homes to ensure the maximum take up of the vaccine.