HEALTH service specialists in heart disease and strokes provided a quick-fit health check assessment at the Hardshaw Centre as part of National Stroke Awareness Week.

The initiative was designed to put the fitness message across to townsfolk and to help avoid future heart problems.

Representatives from Whiston and St Helens Hospitals and health promotion staff were supported by St Helens and Knowsley Health and the Stroke Association.

Spokeswoman Carole Ellis said: "We want to bring home the message that exercise and diet control will reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes. This will help people live a longer, better and happier life style."

The team of nurses and health professionals also stepped out to do their bit for the Stroke Association by taking part in a sponsored walk from Whiston Hospital to St Helens town centre.

They were joined by plucky Andrea Darlington (25) the youngest stroke patient to receive rehabilitation at the Kurtz Ward at St Helens Hospital. Andrea wanted to show her appreciation for the treatment.

She covered most of the 'walk' in a wheelchair pushed by her boyfriend Paul Ward, but managed to do the last leg on foot.

In all the team are hoping to raise about £1,000 for the Stroke Association.

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