More than a hundred people took part in a simple, potentially life-saving test organised by the Saddleworth Rotary Club on Stroke Awareness Day.

Club members spent Saturday on Uppermill’s High Street encouraging passersby to have their blood pressure taken at nearby Sacred Heart Church hall to find out if their levels are too high, which can lead to a stroke and other health problems.

The Rotarians also spoke to hundreds more throughout the day highlighting the importance of knowing if your blood pressure is at a healthy level.

The event was part of the Rotary Club’s ongoing drive to raise awareness of the risks of high blood pressure, and was held in partnership with medical professionals and volunteers from the Stroke Association.

Rotary said they were pleased with the results on the day which revealed an encouraging number of people who monitor at home routinely measuring their blood pressure and of those that took the free test,p only one recipient smoked.

However, as a counterpoint, the street team discovered people who for whatever reason do not want to know their blood pressure.

Barbara Howse, Saddleworth Rotary president, said: “Hopefully, this successful event will lead to many more people being aware of the importance of having their blood pressure checked and seeking medical intervention if it is too high.

“As in previous years, we contributed £100 to support this worthwhile event and though it provided a very helpful and important service, Stroke Awareness Day was also most enjoyable opportunity to meet many of our charming Saddleworth locals.”