Supporting communities in the fight against cardiovascular disease is the top mission of the charity Heartbeat North West Cardiac Care. Situated in Preston, Heartbeat provides education, lifestyle guidance, rehabilitation, advice and information.

Stepping to a new beat

People living in and around Garstang can now get access to this service at Acresfield. We’re pleased to announce a new partnership with the charity from Tuesday, March 19th, which means you’ll be able to get cardiac rehab classes on your doorstep. Over 900 people a week in Lancashire benefit from the charity’s work.

The classes are aimed at anyone who has suffered a heart attack or stroke, or is at risk.

Heartbeat’s history

Heartbeat celebrated its 40th birthday last year. It’s an impressive feat. The charity relies on volunteers, its fundraising activities and the donations of its supporters in order to run. The annual total required is 900k.

Keith and Rose Redman started the charity in 1978 following the death of their daughter Gillian to heart disease. She was just a teenager. The tragic loss spurred the couple on to better the support and rehabilitation on offer to heart disease sufferers after their time in hospital.

How to sign up

The programme consists of light exercise sessions and is run by a fitness instructor that’s fully BACPR (British Association for Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation) qualified.

To participate in this programme you will need to complete some forms and go through an exercise treadmill test.

Classes will be held at Acresfield every Tuesday and Friday at 2.30pm to 3.30pm. To register please call Heartbeat on 01772 717147 to book your place. Heartbeat suggests that people donate £20 a month to cover their charitable activities, such as classes.

For information on how to donate, and how your money will be spent to help this worthy cause, click here.