Wilsden Medical Practice is among more than 40 doctors’ surgeries across Bradford district opening on Saturdays this month.

Patients are encouraged to use the surgeries rather than put extra strain on already busy accident and emergency departments.

The 44 practices will be open, mainly during the morning and early afternoons this Saturday and on January 18 and 25, thanks to funding from Bradford City and Bradford Districts Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs).

The move is part of the NHS Stay Well campaign, and instead of waiting at A&E with a health problem, patients are encouraged to check if their practice is open and get an appointment there.

Dr Aamer Khan, urgent care lead for Bradford City CCG, said helping people make the right choice about which health service to use not only benefits themselves, but also helps doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals in making sure people receive the right care.

He added: “It’s good news so many practices are opening on Saturdays throughout January, which is one of the busiest months of the year for the NHS.”

The Wilsden practice will be open from 8am to noon.