A SUCCESSFUL event encouraging people to have their blood pressure checked was held in Tavistock.

The free checks were carried out by Judy Thornbury of the Stroke Association, supported by the Rotary Club of Tavistock.

The event was part of a national initiative to help cut down the alarming number of strokes recorded in the UK every year.

The Tavistock club joined scores of Rotary clubs throughout the UK who took to the streets to offer the free checks as part of its Stroke and Health Awareness Campaign 2010.

Wally Lake, president of the Rotary Club of Tavistock, said: 'Many people are still unaware about the dangers of high blood pressure and how small changes to their lifestyles can help to reduce the likelihood of strokes — and these events help to get advice and information out there.'

It is estimated that 40% of the 150,000 strokes suffered by people in the UK each year could be prevented, as high blood pressure can be controlled quite easily.

The Rotary Club's campaign sees around 13,500 people across the UK have their blood pressure taken — last year, nearly 3,000 were advised to see their GP for more tests, and a further 196 were urged to seek medical advice immediately.

For more information call 0845 30 33 100 or go to http://www.stroke.org.uk">www.stroke.org.uk