Every September, thousands of blood pressure checks take place to help raise awareness and prevent heart attacks and strokes.

Know Your Numbers Week aims to reach those who have high blood pressure and don’t know it, so they can get the treatment and support they need to bring it under control.

High blood pressure usually has no symptoms. If left untreated it can increase the risk of developing health problems including heart attacks and strokes, angina, heart failure, kidney failure and narrowed leg arteries.

The focus this year is on home blood pressure monitoring, as it's the easiest way to find out your blood pressure numbers. You have the power to successfully manage your blood pressure – but only if you know your numbers.

You can buy a variety of low-cost monitors so you can test your blood pressure at home or while you're out and about.

Knowing your numbers means you can begin making healthy lifestyle changes or start taking medicines if needed to bring your blood pressure down to a healthy level.

Blood pressure tests can be carried out at most pharmacies, and at your local GP surgery as part of  an NHS health check (offered to adults aged 40-74 years) or at home using a home blood pressure monitor.

This September, as part of Know Your Numbers week, you can get your blood pressure checked at several different locations across the borough for free.

Residents can attend the following sessions:

• Monday 2 September, 9am – 5pm, The Living Well Hub, 26-30 Horsemarket Street, WA1 1XL
• Wednesday 4 September 10.30am - 2pm, Warrington Hospital, Lovely Lane, WA5 1QG
• Thursday 5 September, 9am - 5pm, Golden Square Shopping Centre, 27 Old Market Place, WA1 1QB
• Saturday 7 September, 10.00am - 3pm, Warrington Fire Station, Winwick Road, WA2 8HH

Debbie Watson, Director of Public Health at Warrington Borough Council said: “The only way to find out if you have high blood pressure is to get your blood pressure checked.

"If you have high blood pressure, you can take action to lower this by eating a healthy, balanced diet and exercising regularly.

“Knowing Your Numbers is a really important step to take, and I would urge residents, especially those who are over 40 to ensure they do so regularly. It’s a great idea to invest in a blood pressure monitor that you can use at home to keep on top of your numbers.”

For more information visit: Blood Pressure UK