Workington MP Sue Hayman has had a flu jab to encourage people to get themselves vaccinated.

Mrs Hayman said: "The uptake on flu jabs in this area is quite low and is below the national average.

"Elderly people die every year from flu. It's a very easy way to protect yourself.

"It's a free service to keep you healthy during the winter months. There's a lot of pressure on GP's and hospitals so let's do our best to keep ourselves healthy."

People who are over 65, pregnant, have certain medical conditions, are very overweight, live in residential care, receive a carer's allowance, are the main carer for an elderly or disabled person or are a front line health and social care worker are all eligible for a free flu jab.

They are available at most pharmacies.

The flu vaccine is also recommended for children over the age of six months with a long-term health condition, children aged two, three or four and those in school years one, two and three.

People who aren't eligible can pay to have a jab done privately at pharmacies and supermarkets.

Mrs Hayman had her jab at JJW Allison & Sons in Cockermouth.

Nat Mitchell, pharmacist at J.W.W. Allison & Sons, said: "To protect yourselves, loved ones and the community the flu jab is the best thing available.

"If you want advice about vaccinations, get it from a medical professional who can get you the facts."