The Welsh Ambulance Service is urging revellers to show restraint this Mad Friday, the final working day before Christmas when many office parties take place.

Known also as Frantic Friday or Black Eye Friday, the night often marks the start of the festive party season. While most celebrations end safely, excessive drinking can lead to preventable injuries and put extra pressure on the ambulance service and wider NHS.

Jonathan Edwards, the Trust’s Assistant Director of Operations, said: “Please drink responsibly and always have a designated driver or plan for alternative transport if consuming alcohol.

“Please use emergency services appropriately and only call 999 for serious or life-threatening emergencies.

“Don’t forget about the alternatives to 999, such as the NHS 111 Wales website and Albot - The NHS Wales Digital assistant, which can help you find answers to most questions and guide you to the right place for the health information and advice.

“Please also show respect and consideration for emergency workers.

“Unfortunately, a small minority of people still show aggression towards our crews, with physical and verbal assaults taking place all over Wales.

“Our ambulance crews are there to help people, but they can’t fight for someone’s life if they’re fighting for theirs.

“Crews might have no choice but to leave a scene if their personal safety is compromised, and this isn’t helpful for anyone, least of all the patient.”