FREE blood pressure testing is being offered across Halton as part of Know Your Numbers Week.

The procedure is easy, painless and could save lives.

More than 13,000 people in Runcorn and Widnes could have undiagnosed high blood pressure, putting them at risk of strokes and heart attacks, according to Public Health England.

Halton Council is urging its residents to get their blood pressure checked as part of the UK’s biggest free blood pressure testing event held at various pharmacies from September 18-24.

Halton Cllr Marie Wright, board member for health and wellbeing, said: “The message to people is to take charge of their health and get their blood pressure checked.

“Blood pressure is one of the most preventable and treatable conditions but remains one of the leading causes of death.

"Having your blood pressure checked is the most important step that you can take to reduce your risk of stroke, heart attack or heart failure.”

High blood pressure has no obvious symptoms but it is linked to at least 50 per cent of all strokes and heart attacks and increases the risk of kidney disease and dementia.

Key risk factors for developing high blood pressure are largely lifestyle-related such as eating too much salt, not enough fruit and vegetables, being overweight and not taking enough exercise.

Visit bit.ly/1nxPbi6 to find pharmacies across Halton offering free blood pressure checks.