Kent's paramedics experienced "significant pressure" over Christmas and are asking people to use ambulances responsibly over new year.

Data released today shows the South East Coast Ambulance Service (SECAmb) answered 3,200 calls on Christmas Day and a further 3,600 calls on Boxing Day.

Now they are warning life-threatening and serious calls will be prioritised - with people in a less serious condition likely to wait for an ambulance response when demand is high.

The service's 111 centres have also been experiencing great pressures.

SECAmb is now gearing up for the new year, after last year ambulance crews responded to more than 600 emergency calls in the six hours between 10pm on December 31, 2016, to 4am on January 1, 2017.

Executive director of operations at SECAmb, Joe Garcia, said: "Christmas was as expected, very busy and we’re very proud of the efforts of all our staff in both our 999 and 111 centres and out on the road.

"We’d ask the public for their continued support now and for New Year’s Eve when, once again, we expect to come under heavy pressure.

"We’re urging people to consider the alternatives to dialling 999 when they’re not faced with a life-threatening or serious emergency, including calling NHS 111 for assistance.

"Staff will be working extremely hard to get help to those who need it.

"Staff in our emergency operations centres will be prioritising life-threatening and serious calls and those not facing a serious emergency will wait longer.

"By using 999 responsibly this New Year’s Eve, people can ensure we are best placed to respond to our most seriously ill and injured patients."

People are being asked to call 999 if they have had chest pain for more than 15 minutes, sudden unexplained shortness of breath, heavy bleeding, been unconsciousness even if the patient has regained consciousness or suffered traumatic back, spinal or neck pain.

Revellers are being urged to have fun but stay safe by following advice like looking out for others, especially if they are drinking alcohol, plan your evening, wear layers to keep warm, look out for vulnerable friends and neighbours and only use 999 in emergencies.