Non-emergency 111 health number extended across North East

A three-digit telephone number for those needing non-emergency medical care is to be extended across the whole of the north east of England.

From August 2010, people in County Durham and Darlington with an injury or illness not serious enough for a 999 call have been able to dial 111.

It offers advice and information about out-of-hours health services.

Since its introduction there has been a 14% drop in reduction in 999 calls and a 9% reduction in A&E attendances.