BRITAIN has one of the worst rates of heart disease in the European Union.

A recent study found that 150 men in every 100,000 died every year from heart disease in Great Britain, while 67 women in every 100,000 fell victim.

These statistics are no shock to heart disease sufferers in the Spa who realise just how precious life is.

Now, thanks to a new support group, sufferers need not feel alone and can pop along and discuss their own experience and learn from the experiences of others.

Droitwich Spa's Heart Support Group was set up by Sue Poyer 12 months ago. It offers help, support and understanding to people with heart difficulties, from mild angina to those who have undergone triple bypass operations.

"We set up this group to help those who had just left hospital and needed a little more understanding and reassurance," said Sue.

"Of course, patients realise there is a doctor at the other end of the phone but 24 hours a day can seem a long time to these people and sometimes they worry and need reassurance as to what is normal," she added.

At present the group is relatively small but they are hoping to attract more members and become as well established as the heart support groups in both Worcester and Evesham.

"We are a group with similar interests that come together socially and support one another," said Sue.

"It can be very lively at times and we enjoy outings and a host of speakers who give tips and advice about looking after your heart."

Speakers the group have enjoyed over the last 12 months include Stuart Haywood, from the Droitwich Spa Civic Society, who discussed the redevelopment of the canals.

Healthy living

They were also visited by a cardiac nurse from Worcestershire Royal Hospital, who gave the group some healthy living tips. There have also been speakers from the Heart Support Club in Worcester and Evesham.

Eighty-year-old Jean Patterson joined the group with her husband Allan last September after undergoing open heart surgery and has found it to be a great source of comfort and relief.

"This group is anything but morbid, it is very lively and many of the members are very active.

"It's really nice to meet others who have gone through a similar experience to yourself, which makes you realise life isn't as bad as you think."

Jean added that the group is of mixed ages and personalities and that they were very grateful to Sue Poyer for all her hard work and effort.

The Welland Close resident added: "Sue is such a hard worker and really puts her whole heart and soul into the group.

"It would be lovely to see more members though, as it has proved very beneficial to myself and my husband."

The group meets on the second Wednesday of every month at the Old Library Centre in Ombersley Street East. The next meeting will be held today (Wednesday). For further details contact Sue on 01905 779115.