THE British Heart Foundation and HeartSWell South West have launched an appeal to raise £97,000 to benefit West Devon cardiac patients.

The money raised will be used to purchase a 3D Transoesophageal Echocardiagraph (TOE) Scanner for the South West Cardiothoracic Centre based at Derriford Hospital.

The TOE scanner will enable the cardiac team to make speedier and more informed diagnosis and offer advanced patient care.

Dr Mark Bennett, consultant cardiac anaesthetist at Plymouth Hospitals NHS Trust, said: 'The 3D echo will give the anaesthetists and surgeons a window into the working heart to better plan the optimal surgery for our patients.'

Owen Penney, fundraising volunteer manager for the British Heart Foundation, said: 'With thousands of families in and around Devon having to live with the trauma of a loved one with heart disease, it is essential that the hospital is equipped to provide the best possible treatment.'

To help raise funds for the Derriford 3D Heart Appeal call Owen Penney on 01822 612310 or email [email protected]">[email protected]