IF you want to showcase your craft skills, raise your fashion credentials or are looking for a fun way to raise money for charity, the British Heart Foundation (BHF) has the answer.

We're calling on all style-seekers across the UK to take part in The Big Stitch this July by heading to their nearest BHF shop, buying an item and adding their own personal stamp to it - utilising basic sewing skills and adding decorative details.

Every item bought and personalised will help to raise money to transform the lives of people living in the UK with cardiovascular disease.

Each year, heart and circulatory disease kills around 17,769 in the North West and currently 850,000 people in the region are living with its burden so it is essential that the BHF continues to accelerate research into new treatments in order to prevent, diagnose and treat these terrible conditions.

With around 560 BHF clothing and accessory shops nationwide, join thousands of crafty fashionistas across the UK who are taking part in The Big Stitch campaign and help the BHF raise vital funds for their life saving heart research.

Caroline Jones, area manager, British Heart Foundation