by Jo Earle

As paramedics in Kent prepare for their busiest night of the party season, revellers are being warned to know their limits.

Emergency staff have dubbed tonight 'Black Friday', with a combination of chilly temperatures and festive over-indulgence likely to lead to an increase in the number of 999 calls.

Ambulance crews received 67% more calls than normal on the same Friday last year.

Extra paramedics will be on standby across the county tonight, supported by teams of volunteers. They include street pastors, who will be on hand in many town centres to support anyone who gets into difficulties.

Tom Pelham works as a volunteer street pastor in Ashford town centre

Tom Pelham, a pastor in Ashford, said: "We give help to people who might have hurt themselves and offer practical advice to those who need it.

"We also give out blankets and bottles of water, and just try to change the atmosphere in the town on a Friday night.

"You can have a good time without getting so drunk you can't remember it the next day."

Dr Yvonne Doyle, the NHS regional director of public health, added: "We don't want to stop people from having a good time but we want to ensure people lessen their chances of having to attend hospital.

"If people are drinking alcohol, we urge them to drink sensibly and responsibly.

"Minor injuries can be dealt with at minor injury units or walk-in centres, and by wrapping up warm and looking out for each other, people can stay safe and well this Christmas."