Putting on the pressure in Great Dunmow

BLOOD pressure and stroke prevention were the hot topics during a morning of health checks at the United Reform Church in Great Dunmow.

BLOOD pressure and stroke prevention were the hot topics during a morning of health checks at the United Reform Church in Great Dunmow.

As part of an annual stroke awareness day, jointly organised by the stroke association and the rotary club, free blood pressure checks were available for members of the public.

Over 80 people turned up at the New Street church and, out of that number, ten people were referred to their GP because of high blood pressure - which is a key indicator of a possible stroke or heart attack.

Organiser Phil Milne, who suffered a stroke himself a few years ago, said: "High blood pressure, which these days can easily be treated, is the main cause of strokes and heart attacks - so just knowing your blood pressure is well worthwhile."

The church also held a coffee morning at the same time so people were able to enjoy a cup of tea or coffee before or after having their pressure checked.

And no one could miss what was going on, as town crier Richard Harris strode through the town, ringing his bell and urging people in.

Even town mayor Gwynn Davies took advantage of the free checks and stopped by at about midday. People had been coming in since 9.30am.

GIVE us your opinion. E-mail editor@dunmow-broadcast.co.uk