MEMBERS of the St Helens Martial Art Studio in Tolver Street are putting their might behind The British Heart Foundation's 'Start a Heart Appeal.'

For they are holding a sponsored skipathon to help raise money for the British Heart Foundation on Sunday, June 21. The doors will be open from 11am with children skipping from noon to 3pm and adults skipping from 2 to 6pm. There will also be martial arts demonstrations and other entertainment.

Gary Giam, co-owner of the Martial Arts Studio, says: "Skipping is excellent exercise for the heart and lungs and we use it frequently for the kick-boxing sessions we hold. Nearly everyone knows someone who has suffered or died from heart disease and we are delighted to raise money to help the British Heart Foundation and also promote martial arts as an excellent and fun way of keeping healthy."

Everyone is welcome to go along on June 21 and for further information about the skipathon or classes at the Martial Arts Studio please ring Gary or Bern on 01744 730051 or Lucy on 0151 283 7568.

The 'Start a Heart Appeal' aims to raise £1 million to provide more defibrillators for experienced first responders such as the police, fire brigade and voluntary services like St John Ambulance. The British Heart Foundation would even like to see them in some major railway stations, sports stadiums and shopping centres.

In addition, to raise money, BHF roses (in red, cerise/cream and white) will be available from June 8 in high street locations.

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