EIGHTY members of the public had their blood pressure checked at an information and advice day at Helensburgh's Waitrose supermarket.

The event was run by Helensburgh Garelochside Rotary Club in partnership with Local Chest Heart and Stroke Club and the Stroke Association.

Jean Cairns, practice nurse from the Arrochar Surgery and Julie Crombie, practice nurse from the Oakview Medical Practice, were kept busy with people stopping by their stall at the Colgrain store.

The Know Your Blood Pressure Day aimed to raise awareness about strokes and how getting blood pressure checked regularly and knowing how to recognise the FAST Test (face, Arms, Speech and telephone for help) can make a big difference to someone's recovery from a stroke.

Margaret Somerville, director of services at CHSS, said of the campaign: “High blood pressure is a major risk factor for stroke, and plays a significant role in heart attacks and heart disease.

"There are rarely any symptoms, making it all the more important to have your blood pressure checked.

"We’re really pleased that Helensburgh Garelochside Rotary Club are getting involved with Blood Pressure Matters. By taking action they are making a real difference to Scotland’s Health."

Sheenah Nelson, president of Helensburgh Garelochside Rotary Club, was delighted with how well the event, in memory of a fellow Rotarian's wife, who passed away from a stroke recently, went.

She said: "We had a fairly busy day with several of the customers stopping to have their blood pressure checked and receive advice on how to prevent having a stoke by making changes in their life styles. Eg diet, exercise, and getting their Blood pressure checked regularly to spot any problems.

"We are indebted to the surgery staff for their help and assistance and also the staff from Waitrose for kindly allowing us to hold this event. Our Rotarians were on hand to encourage shoppers to have their blood pressure checked.

"This event was very well received and I think will now be an annual event. Just taking a few minutes to have your BP checked and knowing how to recognise the FAST test (Face, Arms, Speech and telephone for help) can make a big difference."