Damien Moore MP calls for Southport residents to celebrate British Heart Foundation’s 60th birthday

Damien Moore MP is urging Southport residents to support the British Heart Foundation (BHF) on the charity’s 60^th birthday year.

Since launching on 28^th July 1961, the BHF has funded ground-breaking discoveries, including the first UK heart transplant, pacemakers and genetic testing for inherited heart conditions.

The BHF’s research is saving and improving lives. When the charity was founded in 1961, 7 out of 10 heart attacks were fatal – but now, at least 7 out of 10 people survive.

However, heart and circulatory diseases still kill 1 in 4 in the UK, and coronary heart disease is the biggest killer worldwide.

The last year has also been one of the toughest in the BHF’s history due to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. The charity’s investment for new research into conditions such as heart attack, stroke and vascular dementia was cut in half last year, which could ultimately delay important scientific breakthroughs.

So that the BHF can continue to fund the next 60 years of breakthroughs, residents are being urged to join the charity’s Team 60. They can choose a charity challenge around the number 60 – from hosting a 60s themed party, running 60 miles over a month, or even taking on a 60-day challenge, the possibilities are endless.

Those who don’t want to take on a challenge can also support the BHF in other ways, either by making a donation or choosing to shop with the charity.

Damien Moore MP said: “Research is vital to prevent, diagnose and treat heart and circulatory diseases in the UK, but this cannot be funded without the support of the public.  The BHF simply would not be celebrating 60 years of scientific breakthroughs if it wasn’t for their generosity.

“After a difficult year in the charity’s history, the support of the local community is more vital than ever. That’s why I’m calling on residents to join the BHF’s Team 60. From taking on a charity challenge, making a donation or shopping with the BHF online or in store – every donation will help the BHF move a step closer to improving the lives of the 7.6 million people living with heart and circulatory diseases in the UK.”

To find out more about ways to support the BHF during its 60^th year, visit bhf.org.uk/birthday