AMBULANCE bosses are urging people to be sensible as pubs and restaurants reopen for the first time in months following the coronavirus lockdown.

The East of England Ambulance Service has increased its staffing levels for the weekend in case people go overboard with boozing.

During lockdown the ambulance trust has dealt with a quarter fewer alcohol-related incidents on Saturdays compared with the same period last year.

Chief operating officer Michael Bailey said: “As an ambulance trust we are always planning ahead and risk assessing.

“With pubs and restaurants reopening, there is clearly potential for increased callouts and we are asking the public to drink responsibly and respect the guidelines put in place by businesses and the government, such as social distancing and regular hand washing

“We have put in place contingencies to deal with the increased activity but are hopeful they will not be needed and our staff will be left to deal with urgent cases.

“The safety of our patients and staff is of paramount importance to us and we hope the public will enjoy themselves safely and sensibly.”