MP supports heartbeat campaign

WARRINGTON North MP Helen Jones dropped in at the British Heart Foundation’s store at Westbrook to raise awareness of the charity’s “Fight For Every Heartbeat” campaign.
The MP used the opportunity to highlight the urgent need for more research into inherited heart conditions.
She said: “Many inherited heart conditions are hidden in family trees. Often, nobody knows that the condition exists until somebody in the family takes ill, or sadly dies.
“It is vital that more research is carried out to identify the cause of these heart conditions.”
Researchers have already identified some of the genes behind these inherited conditions, and a genetic test can now be given to the child of an affected parent. This has the potential to save lives.
Yet the British Heart Foundation say further action is needed to protect more lives.
Professor Peter Weissberg, medical director at the British Heart Foundation, said: “More research is now urgently needed to identify all the genes responsible for these deadly disorders.
“Pinpointing genes which cause inherited heart conditions will allow affected children to be protected and, in the long term, will lead to new treatments to overcome the effects of the faulty gene.”
To mark the campaign, Ms Jones visited the British Heart Foundation furniture and electric Store at Westbrook Shopping Centre.
She was given a tour of the shop by manager, Kerry Scott, and area manager, Andy Johnson. She then met with staff and volunteers to hear more about how their work raises vital funds towards life-saving medical research and supports the local community.
The MP added: “It was a pleasure to meet the team at the BHF store and to see their dedication to their work. There is an awful lot going on behind the scenes. The staff told me they collect donated items of furniture six days a week.
“They provide a really good service to local people by offering high quality goods at a low cost. I was really impressed by the store and I’d strongly recommend a visit.”
Pictured: Helen Jones with staff and volunteers at the Westbrook shop.