FREE cardiac screening is helping to save lives.

Every week in the UK at least 12 young people die of undiagnosed heart conditions, with no symptoms or warning in around 80 per cent of cases.

More than 100 Knutsford Academy students have been screened in the latest programme delivered by Knutsford Community First Responder Trust (KCFRT) and the charity Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY).

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Pupils aged between 14 and 18 were offered free checks, thanks to funding raised by Georgina Hodge, in memory of her late husband Mat.

Mat died suddenly in September 2018 from a cardiac arrest, aged 43, leaving wife Georgina and sons Jamon and Jonty.

Students received a free ECG, an echocardiogram if required, as well as a physical examination.

The tests can identify cardiac abnormalities, providing vital information to patients so they can start treatment.

The event was delivered at the school by qualified cardiac physiologists, doctors and volunteers from both CRY and KFCRT.

Lisa Johnson, KCFRT heart screening coordinator, said: “We are delighted to work with Georgina Hodge, Knutsford Academy and CRY to provide this lifesaving service to the young people of Knutsford.

“We've been working with the Academy to provide these events for over five years, and with generous donations like this from Georgina, we hope to provide screenings for many years to come.”

Knutsford resident Georgina Hodge, said: “It’s wonderful to see these heart screening events take place after the delay with Covid.

“My thanks go out to all the wonderful people who supported myself and my two sons, Jamon and Jonty, and worked hard to fundraise in memory of my husband, Mat, who died of a cardiac arrest in September 2018.

“The fundraising activities are continuing with a 110 mile bike ride from Knutsford to Trearddur Bay in September this year to mark the five year anniversary of his passing.

“It’s been great to work with the kind people of KCFRT and CRY, to support such an amazing charity and to witness the impact it’s making on the lives of our local community.”