North of England's NHS is urging the public to seek care as usual amid the ongoing GP collective action.

Despite potential disruptions, the NHS has stressed that GP surgeries will be operational and alternative service providers like pharmacies and NHS 111, online or via call, are also available.

A&E and 999 services should only be used for life-threatening emergencies.

David Purdue, executive chief nurse at the NHS North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB) said: "We recognise that GPs are facing significant challenges and also the valuable service they, and their teams, provide to our communities."

He said GP surgeries would remain open and appointments should be attended unless the patient hears otherwise.

Mr Purdue said: "If you think you might need to go to a hospital or an urgent treatment centre but you're not sure - NHS111 is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week online or by phone.

"It's really important that in emergency and life-threatening cases people continue to come forward - A&E and 999 services will be running as normal."

Mr Purdue urged the public to order repeat prescriptions in good time to avoid last-minute rushing.

For urgent mental health crises, the public can call NHS111 and select option 2.