A SPONSORED walk this weekend will continue the fine tradition of equipping local medical services with the latest advances in heart health technology.
The Tavistock branch of the British Heart Foundation is holding its annual 'Miles of Smiles' event — part of a nationwide campaign to raise money to help combat heart and circulatory disease, the UK's biggest killer.
The ambulance service has applied for a grant to help equip Tavistock's new four-wheel-drive ambulance with vital equipment to help improve the survival rates of cardiac patients.
In previous years, money has gone to Tavistock Hospital for machines to monitor blood pressure. The Abbey and Stannary surgeries have been given defibrillators and ECG machines, Tavistock ambulance station and the Wharfside surgery have received a computerised training mannequin for up-dating skills and training others and the cardiology department of Derriford Hospital has received numerous grants.
The BHF is entirely supported by voluntary donations and the annual walk is a major source of income for the charity.
Tavistock's walk starts at 10.30am this Sunday at Highdown, Lydford, behind the Dartmoor Inn.
BHF branch secretary Kris Budge said: 'The idea is to have some fun, enjoy some exercise and raise funds for this very worthwhile cause.'
Sponsorship forms are available from Kris Budge on 01822 615338 or David Grigg on 01822 613271.