The North East Ambulance Service NHS Trust's control complex received 3,720 calls between 24 and 27 December.

While many were drink-related cases, one man, cold from waiting in a taxi queue, wanted an ambulance to take him to hospital in case he got hypothermia.

Another man called to help him reach his TV remote control, while a woman called when her heating broke down.

The control room said many calls were received from people suffering from sore throats.

But one woman compained she had severe abdominal pain, and when the crew arrived at her house she asked them to return later when the cake cooking in the oven would be ready.

Someone else called for an ambulance because the battery in their hearing aid had died.

Managers said staff coped well during what was a busy period.