SHOPPERS will be able to get free blood pressure checks at the Pyramids Shopping Centre.

On Tuesday, May 15 people in Birkenhead will be able to have their blood pressure checked outside Next and Boots Opticians as well as receiving free tips, help and advice on maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Centre director Derek Millar said: “We are really pleased to welcome NHS Health Check back to the centre, as when the team members were here last winter, they did encounter a couple of shoppers who had potential cause for concern

“Visitors can empower themselves by knowing what a healthy reading looks like, so this is a great opportunity to come down and get checked out, as it’s really quick and easy.”

The health check team will be there from 10am to 4pm to raise awareness for World Hypertension Day - an event to increase access to blood pressure screenings.

NHS health check and public health nurse for Wirral Council Sharon Fadden said: “We are urging all Wirral residents to get their blood pressure checked on a regular basis so that they ‘Know Their Numbers’.

“Hypertension or high blood pressure is often called ‘the silent killer’ because it usually causes no warning symptoms, whilst causing underlying damage to the cardiovascular system, which in turn causes heart attacks and strokes.

“However, getting a quick and simple blood pressure check regularly, means that the problem is discovered and treated before damage is done, reducing the danger of strokes and heart attacks.

“There are 1 in 3 people on the Wirral who have high blood pressure, but don’t know they do, so come down to the Pyramids Shopping Centre in Birkenhead on Tuesday and get yours checked. It could save your life."