A CREW from the BBC have linked up with staff from Worcestershire's new hospital to help raise awareness of strokes.

The dangers of smoking and lack of exercise were highlighted last week as part of a week of events organised by Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust.

The campaign coincided with Stroke Awareness Week and included sessions around Worcester where smoking cessation advisers tested smokers' carbon dioxide levels.

The advisers were also giving out leaflets containing tips on giving up the habit in Worcester's city centre on Saturday .

Elaine Stratford, stroke liaison nurse for the trust, said the number of people who did not know what caused strokes was worrying.

"We see a lot of people in clinic who are completely unaware of the risk factors of stroke, and have been ignoring things like high blood pressure," she said.

Sue Beardsmore from BBC Midlands Today was broadcasting from Worcester's historic Guildhall when she met up with Mrs Stratford.

They were also joined by Mike George from BBC Hereford and Worcester.