WARRINGTON residents had the chance to receive heart check-ups and advice courtesy of LiveWire.

LiveWire advisors and health professionals were on hand at a free drop-in event at Orford Jubilee Neighbourhood Hub in Jubilee Way last Wednesday.

Residents were invited to attend to learn more about their heart health and receive expert top tips.

Paul Corless, a LiveWire lifestyles advisor, said: "This was a healthy heart screening event checking for high blood pressure and atrial fibrillation (AF).

"AF is a heart condition that causes an irregular heartbeat which puts people at greater risk of having a stroke.

"AF can show no symptoms so it's important to get checked."

Derek Shaw, 73, from Appleton, underwent quadruple heart bypass surgery just 10 weeks ago.

He now wants to encourage others to get their heart checked.

Derek explained: "I never had any symptoms, I just felt short of breath.

"I fell over and hurt myself and I had some checks at the hospital.

"They found one artery was 90 per cent blocked, two were 80 per cent blocked and one was 40 per cent blocked.

"I think more people should make sure they get themselves checked, especially as you get older.

"I have never smoked or had excess salt or sugar and kept myself fit as a cardiac rehab fitness instructor.

"For me it was just hereditary and it makes you think about how you can go just like that."

A healthy diet, exercise, managing alcohol consumption and going without cigarettes are some of the major ways that people can improve their heart health, alongside regular check-ups.

Dr Ahmed Farag, a Warrington hospital cardiologist, said: "It's all about promoting awareness because prevention is the best cure.

"I'd recommend getting a blood pressure and AF check every five years after you turn 40 and report any changes to your GP."