PEOPLE in the Yorkshuire Dales suffering from minor illnesses will soon be able to get advice and treatment more quickly.

A scheme is being launched at pharmacies in Leyburn and Hawes on Saturday to improve choice and access to health services in Wensleydale.

The scheme has been developed by the medicines management team at Hambleton and Richmondshire Primary Care Trust, together with GPs in Leyburn, Hawes and Aysgarth, and pharmacies.

Patients registered with a local practice who are suffering from minor ailments such as nasal congestion, hay fever, sore throat, mouth ulcers and head lice, can go to their pharmacy, which are often open when surgeries are shut, for advice and treatment.

Leyburn GP Dr Stephen Wild said: "I think this is a really positive step. Any initiative which increases choice for patients and allows access to treatments more quickly will always have our full support.

"The opportunity to have minor conditions dealt with in this way should provide extra capacity in surgery to deal with patients with more complex problems. We are all very enthusiastic about the scheme and its benefits for the local community.