ANYONE needing to see an out of hours GP is being advised of a change of contact number.

Residents who need to see a doctor or nurse urgently Monday to Friday between 6.30pm and 8am or anytime during a weekend or Bank Holiday, can do so by using the new number - 0300 555 4566 - which will be charged at a local rate.

Sarah Dugan, chief executive for Dudley Primary Care Trust, said: “This excellent service will continue to provide out of hours cover for GPs across the borough in the same way as it has for several years but, the number is changing.

"I would urge patients to make a note of this new number as the old one will cease on April 1."

Callers will speak to a trained operator who will ask for name and contact details, GP details and the reason of the call, before further advice is given.

The new number will also be given out on all GP surgery answer machines.