BLACKPOOL Victoria Hospital is soon hoping to say 'On yer bike' to the oldest patient ever to attend its cardiac rehab unit.

And now the hospital is hoping to get funding so it can expand the centre to give more patients a helping hand to a healthy heart.

At 89, Sam Faber is the Vic's oldest cardiac rehab patient and has nothing but praise for the department and its staff.

"The girls have been marvellous and I would recommend the course to anyone," said Sam who suffered a heart attack in October last year.

A keen cyclist, Sam - pictured here on an exercise bike - says he can't wait to get back in the saddle.

"I used love riding my bike to the seafront," said Sam, "so getting back on it is my number one priority."

The five week exercise programme is designed to ease patients back into a normal healthy lifestyle following heart attacks.

Activity is centred around the gym where equipment used includes exercise bikes, jogging machines and trampettes with staff providing health and lifestyle advice.

Head occupational therapist Diane Heald has even created a relaxation tape designed specifically for the needs of recovering heart patients.

Rehab begins six weeks after the heart attack and continues twice weekly for a five week period.

Only 12 patients can use the gym at one time, but the hospital is hoping to expand the department to meet the needs of the patients with a wider variety of heart problems.

"There are various programmes around the country but ours at the Vic is more comprehensive," said Diane.

"The government has identified other patients who could benefit from the facilities such as angina sufferers, but at the moment we are waiting for more funding and resources."

Rehabilitation is optional, but Sam is now fit and well following the course and is even going to join a gym to keep his heart in tip top condition.