PEOPLE in Huddersfield should look after themselves, older friends and neighbours this week as temperatures are predicted to drop, the Department of Health said.

Following predictions of severe cold weather, snow and ice, the Met Office, together with the Department of Health, issued a Level 3 Cold Weather Alert in Yorkshire.

The Level 3 alert is issued when there is a 90% chance of temperatures of 2 degrees Celsius and/or widespread ice and snow.

Kirklees Council has gritted roads and the forecast is for much colder temperatures later in the week.

England sees thousands of extra deaths in the winter as a result of cold weather and associated health problems.

Heart attacks, stroke and respiratory problems rise in the cold weather and the NHS comes under increased pressure from people getting flu, people injuring themselves through falls or slips and other health problems associated with colder weather, such as the norovirus vomiting bug.

Public Health Minister Anna Soubry said: “It’s really important people in Yorkshire look after themselves and be good neighbours to older friends in the cold weather.

“In the winter older people and those with long-term conditions are more likely to suffer heart attacks and strokes, respiratory illnesses can get worse and there is the risk of falls on slippery ground.

“We have given £20 million to local authorities to help vulnerable people stay well during cold weather and get the help they need within their communities. And we urge anyone with a long-term condition to get a free flu jab from their GP.

“The NHS is well prepared for an increase in winter related health problems which are typical at this time of year. Preparations are made across the NHS annually and these are now in place in every area of England.”