AS a local heart patient, I was stunned to read about the appalling lack of cardiac rehabilitation provision in the region.

According to a new report by the British Heart Foundation, only 34 per cent of heart attack sufferers received cardiac rehabilitation across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Heart patients who do not take part in cardiac rehabilitation are at significantly higher risk of dying in the years following their diagnosis.

Ten years ago the Government promised to tackle this problem together with local health authorities, but there still isn't a single programme in the country that meets minimum staffing requirements.

Cardiac rehab costs just £600 and can buy a heart patient extra years with their friends and families.

I urge other readers to visit the website at bhf.org.uk/cardiacrehab and help ensure heart patients get the support they need.

Mrs Marian

Hogan

(via email)