AN ESTIMATED half a million people are living with heart and circulatory disease in the south west and it is responsible for the deaths of more than one in four men and women.

The British Heart Foundation is urging people in Swindon and beyond to get involved with Rock Up In Red on February 1, the start of National Heart Month, to help raise vital funds for those living with heart and circulatory disease.

Last year, National Heart Month raised over £1m to support the BHF’s life-saving work. In 2013 the BHF hopes to raise even more but needs local people to Rock Up In Red and help raise funds.

Louise Parkes, BHF Director of Fundraising said: “We are calling on the people of the south west to put on their best red items on February 1 and encourage their colleagues, friends and family to do the same and help support the nation’s heart charity by getting involved and raising money.

“Whether it’s painting your nails red, donning a red tie, some red socks or going all out and rocking a top to toe red outfit, the BHF is urging people across the UK to organise a Rock Up In Red day with friends, families and colleagues to raise funds that will go directly towards vital research, support and care for those suffering with heart and circulatory disease.

“If you want to get involved with Rock Up in Red, simply encourage your colleagues, friends or pupils to rock up wearing something red and give £2 – or schools can do it for £1 per pupil.”

To order your free fundraising pack for the day, just go to bhf.org.uk/red or call the hotline on 0300 330 0645.