pulse

Autumn/Winter 2017

Inside this issue

50 years of Heart
Research UK
Our latest medical
research
Feature on salt intake
Special people

Kindly supported by

Heading: Next issue Our anniversary

Picture 6: 50th Logo elements: Helping
Hearts near you for 50 years
 Contents

Our anniversary year and awards 3 Medical

research New Grants 6 Medical research Project updates
11 Masterclass 13 EXSEL scholarship 14 Special
people 15 HRUK events 21 Our history 24 HRUK
in the Midlands 28 Healthy heart feature: Salt and
your health 32 HRUK and Subway Healthy Heart
Grants 34 Our corporate partners 38

Chief Executive Message

Welcome to the new edition of Pulse, packed full of the usual updates
on our medical research achievements and grants, healthy heart
grants plus stories about some really special people.
What a year 2017 was for Heart Research UK. We celebrated our
50th anniversary and our Midlands office also celebrated their 10th
anniversary. Of course we couldnt have done it without some of our
most dedicated and passionate supporters. You can read about just
some of them and their brilliant fundraising stories in this edition.
One of our main aims has always been to fund ground-breaking
research. Read about our pioneering medical research grants to learn about how they could make a
difference to your life soon.
We have a lot to be proud of at Heart Research UK. Weve also got a lot more to look forward to in
the future, with some very exciting projects on the horizon.
Thank you for your continued support and we look forward to continuing our journey with you to
help people live healthier, happier and longer lives.

2 Heart Research UK
We started off our 50th anniversary celebrations with a bang, holding
an anniversary event at Leeds Civic Hall. We also held an anniversary
helping hearts ball at Wetherby Racecourse, and another anniversary
event in Birmingham.
Over 300 staff, volunteers and supporters came together to celebrate our anniversary year
and our biggest achievements. As part of our anniversary event in Leeds, Heart Research UKs
hometown, we recognised some of our most dedicated and passionate supporters across four
awards. Here are their stories:

Most Outstanding Healthy Heart Grant

awarded to Saints Youth Centre, from Belfast
The Saints Youth Club is located in Twinbrook, an area of Belfast marred by much deprivation
and health issues. However, members proactively organised Saints Saving Hearts, an initiative
promoting heart-healthy cooking to young people.
With a professional chef at the helm, key healthy cooking
principles such as the importance of a low-fat diet, portion
sizes and hygiene skills were shared with the group.
Through weekly workshops club members also learnt about
the dangers of smoking, and designed a heard-hitting outdoor
wall mural to spread the stop smoking message to the whole
of their community.
This successful initiative was funded by the long-standing
HRUK and SUBWAY Healthy Heart Grant scheme with an
award of 10,000.

Fundraising Champion
awarded to Kerry Morrison
from Harrogate
Kerry has been a valued HRUK fundraiser for many years.
She began raising money for Heart Research UK after
her daughter Lynda, at the time just seven years old and
suffering from cardiomyopathy, received a donated heart
at the Freeman Hospital in Newcastle.
Over the years Kerry has been involved in numerous HRUK
events and it is in recognition of her tireless support that she
has been awarded Fundraising Champion. Year after year
Kerry has organised the popular Sing for your Heart event in
Harrogate and to date Kerry has raised over 3,462. Thank
you, Kerry!

Join us on Facebook www.facebook.com/heartresearchuk 3

 Most Outstanding Researcher awarded to
Professor Chris Denning of the University
of Nottingham
Professor Chris Denning has been leading a HRUK
Translational Research Project to develop a new technique
for understanding and treating long QT syndrome (LQTS), a
condition that can cause abnormal heart rhythms and lead
to sudden cardiac arrest.
The project made good progress towards the new technique
and with further advances, it may be useful in the development
of new drug treatments for LQTS and other genetic conditions
of the heart.
The research has led to further grants totalling more than
3.4 million to take the work forward, and important new
collaborations with industry and university partners.
As a keen advocate for continued research into heart disease,
Professor Denning raised almost 3,000 for HRUK by taking
part in the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge.
Thank you, Professor Denning.

Most Valued Volunteer

presented to Ethel Hayeems
from Leeds
Ethel is very special to us. With over a decade of diligent
volunteering she has become a big part of life at Heart
Research UK. Thirteen years ago, after reading our appeal
in a local newspaper Ethel, a retired primary school
teacher, got in touch. Years on and she has acquired a real
understanding of the charity, the way it works, and how
rewarding it can be to take part in voluntary work. As one of
our longest serving members of staff she keeps our younger
colleagues on their toes too!

Ethel told us, I look forward to coming into the office.

Its a case of being useful and doing something
worthwhile as well as keeping my brain active. It is
just good being part of that circle of people in the
office. Its no wonder Ethels enthusiasm has rubbed off
on us all.

4 Heart Research UK
 huge

in e Pa
G lve e 2
se
A

et d 3
vo g
thank you
Heart Research UK would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who
has supported us over the past 50 years and we look forward to the
next 50 years of helping hearts near you.

www.heartresearch.org.uk for more information

Join us on Facebook www.facebook.com/heartresearchuk 5

 MEDICAL RESEARCH
Research Grants
NEW
Translational Research
Project Grants
Novel and Emerging
Technologies Grants

Updates
Translational Research
Project update
Novel and Emerging
Technologies Grants

Masterclasses

EXSEL
Scholarship

How do we select what projects to fund?

Heart Research UK has a long history of funding pioneering research into the prevention, treatment
and cure of heart disease. We want to support the most talented scientists and clinicians, and
the highest quality science and projects that will benefit patients as soon as possible. How do we
decide which professionals or projects to award grants to though?
We make sure that all our grant applications are assessed by peer-review. This means that we enlist the
help of many independent scientific experts with different specialities and ask them to give advice and
make judgements.
This includes volunteer external peer reviewers, who provide written expert feedback about the
applications. This helps our medical review panels to judge which projects should be awarded HRUK
grant funding.
Leading scientific experts from all over the world are involved. The support we receive from our
specialist reviewers really is invaluable; it ensures our grant making process is fair, impartial and that we
are funding the best projects that aim to benefit patients as soon as possible.

6 Medical research
 NEW Translational Research Project Grants
Weve awarded almost 600,000 for Translational Research Projects. These grants show HRUKs
commitment to supporting innovative bench-to-bedside research that can improve the health
and treatment of patients with cardiovascular disease.
Dr Daniel Bailey
University of Bedfordshire | 86,434 - 20 months
The benefits of breaking up prolonged
sedentary time on heart disease risk in people
with spinal cord injury
The problem
Prolonged periods of time spent inactive and
being sedentary (sitting) increases the risk of
heart disease even if the person is active at other
times. Heart disease is the leading cause of death
in people with spinal cord injury. This may be
because they are highly sedentary.
The project
Dr Bailey and his team will assess heart disease
risk in inactive people with spinal cord injury in two
situations:
1. Uninterrupted sitting; volunteers remain seated
in their wheelchair for a 5.5-hour day
2. Sitting plus activity breaks; volunteers will carry
out two minute bouts of moderate-intensity
exercise every 20 minutes over a 5.5-hour day
The benefits
Breaking up prolonged sedentary time with
regular short activity breaks may be an effective
way to lower the risk of heart disease in people
with spinal cord injury and a simple strategy that
they are more likely to take part in. The results will
help to develop new physical activity and clinical
care guidelines.
More grant info on our website www.heartresearch.org.uk/grants
Dr Markos Klonizakis
Sheffield Hallam University | 144,134 - 36 months
Investigating the benefits and risks of using
e-cigarettes as an aid to stop smoking
The problem
Smoking is the leading preventable cause of death
worldwide, with the majority of these deaths due to
cardiovascular disease. Yet there are still an
estimated 10 million cigarette smokers in the UK.
E-cigarettes have become very popular but though
they help reduce the number of cigarettes smoked
with apparently few side effects, little is known about
the effect they have on heart and blood vessels.
The project
This project will involve smokers who want to stop
smoking, divided into three groups:
1. Nicotine-rich e-cigarettes and behavioural
change support
2. Nicotine-free e-cigarettes and behavioural
change support
3. Referral to an NHS smoking cessation clinic
The researchers will study the effects of these three
aids to stopping smoking on the health of the arteries,
cardiovascular disease risk and nicotine addiction.
They will also interview a number of participants to
find out what encourages and what deters them from
quitting smoking.
The benefits
More research is urgently needed into the safety and
health effects of e-cigarettes to help smokers who
want to quit to make an informed decision.
If you live in Sheffield and want to take part, please call
0114 225 4312 or email heartresearch@shu.ac.uk
7
 Prof Paolo Madeddu
Bristol Heart Institute | 76,054 - 36 months
Building new blood vessels to treat babies
with structural defects of the heart
The problem
In the UK, at least 1 in 180 babies is born with
congenital heart disease. This is a heart defect
that develops in the womb. So that these babies
can survive, cardiac surgeons often have to
perform complex surgery to replace and correctly
position defective arteries and valves. The grafts
currently used to repair hearts are made of non-
living materials. This means that the grafts do not
grow with the child and further surgery is needed
to replace the grafts.
The project
The aim of this project is to use special cells from
the babys umbilical cord to grow blood vessels affordable blood test that measures biomarkers
that behave like a real artery and grow with the
childs heart. These cells will be grown in the
laboratory and will then be placed in a special
incubator where they will form tube-shaped
biomaterials that behave like blood vessels.
This living graft can then be used by a cardiac
surgeon to correct the childs heart defect.
The benefits
If this research is successful it will significantly
improve the lives of babies born with heart
defects. Babies could have their heart defects
corrected shortly after birth without the need for
multiple traumatic operations as they get older.
8 Medical Research
Prof Stuart Cook, Dr Paul Barton and
Dr Leanne Felkin (pictured)
Imperial College London | 149,890 - 24 months
Detecting heart muscle stiffening early
The problem
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) affects 1 in
500 people and is the biggest cause of sudden
death in young adults. In HCM, the wall of the heart
becomes thickened and a build-up of fibrous tissue
causes the muscle to stiffen making it harder for
the heart to pump. The thickness of the muscular
wall can be measured easily but it is much harder to
measure muscle stiffening. We need a test that can
identify people at risk of heart stiffening to improve
the chances of it being treated successfully.
The project
The aim of this project is to develop a simple and
of heart muscle stiffness. Professor Cooks team
will investigate whether blood levels of five newly
discovered markers are related to the degree of
heart muscle stiffening in 750 people with HCM.
The benefits
This new blood test will help doctors to identify
and monitor patients at high risk of developing
heart muscle stiffness, benefiting those with HCM
and perhaps others with related conditions such
as heart failure. The research will also help us to
understand how HCM progresses and how it may
be treated.
Prof Khalid Naseem
University of Leeds | 125,105 - 24 months
Blood platelets and inflammation in heart disease
The problem
People with angina have a narrowing or blockage in the coronary arteries of their heart. A blood clot may
form inside the blood vessel blocking the blood flow and causing a heart attack. The disease processes
leading to a heart attack involve inflammation. Small blood cells called platelets play a major part in
blood clotting and it has been found that platelets can cause this inflammation in blood vessels by
releasing particular chemicals.
The project
The aim of this project is to find out if the platelets of patients with heart disease have and produce
more inflammation-causing chemicals and also whether they have higher levels of genetic codes for
these chemicals. The team will compare blood samples from three groups: patients admitted with a
heart attack, patients with stable angina and people who do not have any heart disease.
The benefits
The findings will help us to understand the role of platelets in causing inflammation in the blood vessels
of patients with heart disease and how they are already prepared for an inflammatory reaction.
This project will support future research into new medicines to treat heart disease and prevent
heart attacks.

More grant info on our website www.heartresearch.org.uk/grants 9

 Novel and Emerging Technologies (NET) Grants
NET Grants focus on the development of new and innovative technologies to diagnose, treat
and prevent heart disease and related conditions.
Dr Vivek Muthurangu
University College London and Great Ormond Street Hospital |
217,373 - 36 months
Imaging the heart in children born with heart disease
- the five minute magnetic resonance scan
The problem
Cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) is recognised as one of the best
methods of imaging children with heart disease but takes a long time to
perform, requires an expert to do the scanning and is very costly. Also, due
to the long scanning time and because it can be a distressing experience for
young children, in many cases a general anaesthetic must be used.
The project
The aim of this project is to develop an imaging technique that can be carried out rapidly in five
minutes - and which doesnt need expert input. The research team will build on their experience in the
technical aspects of CMR, computer science, mathematics and performing CMR in children.
The benefits
It is hoped that the new technology will dramatically reduce the cost and patient discomfort of CMR,
so that more children can benefit. Also, the better information may help doctors to decide on the best
ways to treat these children.

Prof Ashok Handa, Prof Eleanor Stride and Dr Regent Lee

University of Oxford | 247,685 - 36 months
Novel treatment for pseudoaneurysms in the groin
The problem
The use of keyhole procedures to treat heart or artery problems has
increased over the years but a potential complication is bleeding from
the keyhole to form a pseudoaneurysm in the groin. If left untreated, a
pseudoaneurysm can become bigger as the bleeding continues, resulting
in swelling, pain, and sometimes skin ulcers. Very rarely, the surrounding
tissue can give way and result in sudden massive blood loss.
Keyhole surgery is often the preferred way to treat patients who are frail and elderly. However, the
conventional treatment for pseudoaneurysm requires open surgery to repair the bleeding hole which
exposes these patients to the increased risks of surgery, general anaesthesia, bleeding and infection.
The project
The aim of this project is to develop a novel treatment for pseudoaneurysm. The research team will
develop a medication which can be injected into the pseudoaneurysm to make the bleeding stop.
The benefits
This new treatment would eliminate the complication of traditional treatment methods and avoid open
surgical repair. This is particularly important in vulnerable patients with multiple medical problems.

10 Medical Research
MEDICAL RESEARCH
project updates
We have a number of ongoing grants, and we like to report
back as often as we can on the results and findings of our
funded projects.

Translational
Research Project
update
Prof Paolo Madeddu
Bristol Heart Institute | 76,054 - 36 months
Treating heart attacks using cell therapy
A project at the University of Bristol investigated
how cells which surround blood vessels, called
pericytes, stimulate new blood vessels to grow
and the team made some important new
discoveries about the processes involved.
In most cases, a heart attack is when a coronary
artery becomes blocked and the resulting lack
of blood supply to the heart muscle can lead to
a damaged heart. Professor Madeddus team
has shown that by stimulating the growth of new
blood vessels, pericytes have the potential to
restore blood supply to damaged heart muscle
after a heart attack. In the longer term, these
findings may help in the development of an
alternative treatment to coronary artery bypass
grafting for heart attack patients.

More grant info on our website www.heartresearch.org.uk/grants 11

 Novel and Emerging Technologies (NET)
Grant update
Dr Tim Betts and Dr James Gamble
John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust |
93,957 - 18 months
Investigating a new technique to help patients who do not respond to
cardiac resynchronisation therapy
Heart failure is a common condition affecting nearly 1 million people in the
UK. In certain patients a special type of resynchronisation pacemaker that
stimulates both left and right sides of the heart together can improve the
pumping of the heart. These pacemakers have a wire in the right ventricle
which is easy to put in and a wire that is passed through the coronary
veins on the outside of the left ventricle, which can be more challenging.
Unfortunately, up to a third of patients who receive these pacemakers do
not improve and the aim of this project was to develop a new technique to
treat these patients.
This study assessed a new way of delivering the pacemaker wire to the inside
of the left ventricle rather than the outside, allowing surgeons to choose the
best position for the wire. The study involved 20 patients who could not be
given the conventional resynchronisation therapy or who had been treated
but hadnt improved.
The findings show that the new technique was safe and feasible. Of the 20 patients taking part two
thirds felt better and the heart pumping strength was improved in 85% of patients. It is hoped that this
new treatment will help patients who do not benefit from conventional resynchronisation therapy and
who have few other treatment options.

12 Research Grants
 Our unique Masterclass series continues
Have you ever wondered how surgeons improve and perfect their skills? Its through mastering
the basics before working alongside, and learning from, more experienced colleagues until they
have enough expertise to take the lead.
Since 2012, our unique Masterclasses have been designed to enhance the education and training of
clinicians by giving them the opportunity to learn about the best techniques and latest treatments
from the leading experts.
Weve now helped over 200 medical professionals learn and enhance their skills and knowledge on
subjects such as cardiac MRI, aortic arch surgery and miniaturised heart lung-bypass machines.
Last year we funded five Masterclasses, including two Masterclasses in Coventry covering mitral
valve surgery and heart transplantation, and two at Castle Hill Hospital, Hull, where 27 clinicians
learnt how to use miniaturised heart-lung bypass machines (mini-bypass machines).
During heart surgery, patients may need to go on a heart-lung bypass machine that oxygenates
the blood and pumps it around the body. The mini-bypass system has been shown to offer more
benefits to patients, however, the majority of UK cardiac centres use conventional bypass machines.
Our fifth Masterclass was held at the University of Liverpool where 17 surgeons learnt more about
and had hands-on experience of complex aortic surgery.

Barbara Harpham, Chief Executive at Heart Research UK, said Our Masterclasses are a fantastic
opportunity for the expert surgeons of tomorrow to expand their knowledge and get hands-
on experience. Above all, were pleased that patients across the country will benefit as more
medical professionals seek to learn more and gain the opportunity to enhance their skills

Want to learn more about our Masterclasses? Visit

www.heartresearch.org.uk/grants/our-masterclasses

More grant info on our website www.heartresearch.org.uk/grants 13

 Investing in gifted academic researchers
of tomorrow
Heart Research UK is supporting two University of Leeds students to look into new and innovative
ways of treating conditions that are directly linked with heart disease.
James Manning from Redditch and James Nicholson from Exeter, both 20, have received a total
30,000 through the EXSEL scholarship scheme a programme for talented medical students who
have an interest in research and wish to pursue an academic career. The scheme is a step on the ladder
for future clinical academics allowing them to develop key research and networking skills.
So far Heart Research UK has supported 15 scholarships and were very proud of the high standard of
research that could lead to real changes in the prevention, treatment and cure of heart disease.
We look forward to hearing how the projects have progressed at the end of the summer and to continue
our working relationship with James and James as we follow their blossoming careers.

www.heartresearch.org.uk/grants

14 Investing in gifted academic researchers

Special

O ent e 2
Ev Pa
se

ur s 1
e
g
People
Superstar supporters whove gone
that extra mile
Every year we are so lucky to have fantastic people from all walks of life raising money. Whether its
the world renowned Virgin Money London Marathon, local 10K runs, our hugely successful Subway
Helping Hearts Family 5K fun runs or an event organised by themselves.
Heres a snapshot of the some of the inspiring stories from 2017 so far and some well-earned thank yous.

Victoria Grainger
Meet Victoria Grainger. She is one amazing lady. Victoria initially contacted Heart Research UK
back in 2015 following the death of her beloved father, Ken, from idiopathic fibrosis of the left
ventricle of the heart.
Since then, Victoria has accomplished some amazing
challenges. She completed the Virgin Money London
Marathon, raising nearly 4,500 and skydived in memory of her
adventurous father.
Last year she took on a special set of 50 challenges - inspired
by our very own 50th anniversary.
This included giving up chocolate and alcohol for 50 days,
completing two half marathons over two consecutive
weekends, conquering the Olympic Park Slide, walking over the
O2 in London, completing 50,000 steps in the capital, taking 50
unusual selfies in one weekend, firewalking, abseiling and even
holding a tarantula - quite an achievement considering spiders
terrify her!
Raised
4,500
HRUK are pleased to say we had the absolute pleasure of
spending the evening with Victoria (pictured right), her mum
Sally-Ann and friends Eleyna & Viktor at our Helping Hearts Ball
Victoria, youre an inspiration!
Keep up with Victorias year of challenges by following her
on Instagram @victoria50for50HRUK

Join us on Facebook www.facebook.com/heartresearchuk 15

 Sarah Walton
Sarahs a real superstar. She initially came
to Heart Research UK to take part in a
sponsored swim, but then she returned to
do the Simplyhealth Great North Run, Virgin
Money London Marathon and more recently
completed an ultra-marathon a massive 46
miles! Sarah also regularly holds Zumbathons
and other fundraising activities for us and to
date has raised over 5,500.
Sarahs family has been affected by heart
problems and she also suffers from her own heart
related issues - though you would never know it
given the amount of time and energy she puts into
her HRUK ambassador role and heading up our
Facebook Lancashire Support Group.
If you live in the Lancashire area and are interested
in joining the group, please join us on Facebook
at facebook.com/Lancashire2016/
Or contact Rachel on 0113 234 7474 or
community@heartresearch.org.uk
Natalie Hogg
My Run, My Way is a great challenge that puts
you in charge. You can choose your own date,
time, route and distance. You can even choose
who you run with and there are no costly sign
up fees.
Natalie lost her wonderful Dad, Stephen, to heart
disease in 2016. To honour the anniversary of
his passing Natalie wanted to do something
worthwhile. So she took on the HRUK My Run, My
Way challenge and created her very own event,
My Run, My Way for a Big Man with a Big Heart
in memory of a man who meant so much to her.
Natalies run took place in Epping Forest.
With mapped out 5K and 10K routes, volunteer
first aiders and marshals, Natalie signed up
over 20 members of her family and friends
to join her and take part, raising a massive
3,000 to date.

Rais Rais
5,50e0d 3,00ed
0

Emily Plummer
Emily Plummer has made a big impression on everyone at HRUK. This year
she signed up to run the Virgin Money London Marathon for us but that was
just the start. Since then she has taken on some huge running challenges.
In March she completed an epic 200-mile run from Glastonbury to Canterbury
in just five days. In May she ran 145 miles from Birmingham to London along the
Grand Union Canal and in July she continued her fundraising with a 105 mile run
around the Lake District.
Emily is using her love of running to help fundraise for HRUK in honour of loved
ones who have been diagnosed with heart conditions, including three close
friends who underwent a series of heart operations.
Follow Emilys blog on her online page: www.runforyourheart.co.uk

16 Special People
Cycling back to health
Stephen Lowes is the Provincial Grand Primo for The Chesterfield and Mansfield Province, Royal
Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes of the Grand Lodge of England.
In September 2016 he suffered a heart problem and ended up in hospital where he was diagnosed
with a very irregular heartbeat and is now on medication. Stephens experience of heart conditions
prompted him to use his year in office to help raise money for HRUK. He climbed on his bike and is
currently clocking up the miles of our LA to San Francisco Virtual Cycle at his local gym.
HRUK was delighted to be asked to attend Stephens investiture as Provincial Grand Primo. Spending
the evening with Stephen and his wonderful family gave us the perfect opportunity to applaud all his
hard work and support Stephen himself, who said it makes my efforts really worthwhile knowing I have
such wonderful support from you guys.

A year full of support from the Lord Mayor

of Leeds
Weve been very lucky to have
had the support of the Lord
Mayor of Leeds, Cllr Gerry Harper
who fundraised for us during his
mayoral year from May 2016
to May 2017.
Heart Research UK was chosen
alongside another charity as his
charities of the year and we have
worked together with the Lord

Raised
Mayor to raise a huge amount of
money - 23,000 so far the final

23,00
figure is yet to be announced.
Events also included two fantastic
raffles (a holiday to Las Vegas and a 0
luxury cruise on the Queen Mary 2), a Psychic evening and a number of
events organised by local community leaders all culminating in an event
in May at Leeds Town Hall to celebrate the diversity and generosity of the city
called Leeds - We Are United.
As a result of all of this fundraising activity, the Lord Mayor was able to put on a number of free
awareness and training days for local people and businesses. This included what first aid to perform if
you witness a seizure, heart attack or cardiac arrest, as well as awareness and advice on how to use an
automated external defibrillator (AED).

Join us on Facebook www.facebook.com/heartresearchuk 17

 Swim for your heart
One of our most popular events is our Swim the Channel
challenge swimming the equivalent of the English
Channel in your local pool. Weve had lots of support
for this event, and its a favourite as its so easy to fit it in
with a hectic lifestyle, but still a massive challenge and
worth the sponsorship.
Two recent swimmers are Sarah Peck and Lynne Bowen-
Jones. Both had 12 weeks to complete the challenging 1,416
lengths, and both achieved their goals on time, raising over
2,000 for Heart Research UK.
If youd like to join our fantastic swimmers and set yourself
the challenge, just visit www.heartresearch.org.uk/swim
for more details and to sign up for free.

Rais
Queen of the jungle 2,27e3d
Melanie Langer proved she has both strength and stamina
when she took on The Coastal Challenge in February 2017.
Pitching her determined energy against a gruelling six day
multi-stage race in the Costa Rican rainforest, Melanie
completed 236km of challenging terrain, much of it in
extreme humidity and high temperatures.
Her incredible efforts raised a gigantic 2,273 in memory of her
lovely Dad, Mike Austreng, who died from a cardiac arrest whilst
on holiday in Costa Rica nine years ago.
Thank you Melanie. This is an amazing contribution, by a wonderful young lady in memory of a really
special man.

Showing real pedal power

Sean Ramsay and Alison Whitley demonstrated theyve got what it takes in an epic bike ride from
London to Paris in June. Colleagues from DS Smith in the Wirral, the pair invested in new bikes and
a testing training regime to raise funds for HRUK.
Sean and Alisons London to Paris Bike Ride cycling challenge meant four long days in the saddle to
pedal a whopping 308 miles from capital to capital. From glorious English countryside to quiet French
country lanes, the friends conquered road after road on behalf of our charity.
A spectacular finish awaited them as they reached the home stretch up the Champs Elysees to the Arc
de Triomphe, before crossing the finishing line at the Eiffel Tower.

18 Special People
Want to follow in Sean and Alisons tracks?
You too can ride to the heart of Paris and help raise funds for Heart Research UK.
Whether youre an established cyclist, a weekend peddler or a beginner wanting to train, with the right
amount of willpower and practice youll have the skills needed to accomplish this cycle trip of a lifetime.
Interested? A standard registration fee of 125 includes your cross-Channel travel, accommodation,
luggage transportation along the route and selected meals. There is a minimum sponsorship amount
of 1,600 per person, so why not enlist the help of your family, friends or work colleagues. They can join
you to enjoy this amazing cycle trip, helping to raise funds for Heart Research UK and our work towards
preventing, treating and curing heart disease.
2018 dates:

6 - 10 June 2018
18 - 22 July 2018 - see the final of the Tour de France on this route
15 - 19 August 2018
12 - 16 September 2018

If youre interested in taking on an International Challenge, please contact Rachel on

0113 234 7474 or community@heartresearch.org.uk. We have many challenges you
can take part in, including Milan to Monaco Bike Ride, Treks to Kilimanjaro, Sahara Desert, The Alps
(Mont Blanc) and Peru. You could even organise your own international challenge.

Join us on Facebook www.facebook.com/heartresearchuk 19

 Supporter Stacia Hill
and her dog Ruby
Stacia and Ruby walked 630 miles over 129 days to raise
money towards a Heart Research UK Masterclass into
aortic surgery.
The duo took on the challenge from Minehead to Poole
in memory of Stacias late husband Robert, who died five
months after suffering an aortic dissection.
This walk has been an emotional challenge for both me
and Ruby. Weve had to come to terms with our loss as
well as the physical challenge. We were so pleased to raise
money to help to go towards an aortic surgery Masterclass.
I think Robert would have been humbled and honoured to
know that he could make such a difference to the lives
of others.
You can read more about their story and catch up on
their progress here:
uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ruby630miles
View Rubys Instagram page here:
www.instagram.com/ruby630miles/

Langley Park Golf Club Two Eds

Special thanks to Langley Park Golf Club for
selecting HRUK as their charity of the year and
supporting our Helping Little Hearts initiative.
Funds raised by the Captain and Lady Captain of
Langley Park Golf Club during their 2017/2018 year
of office will pay for headsets and mobile phones,
that together create a virtual reality simulation;
these will then be shown to primary schools in
their area.
Well done to the Two Eds who finished their
massive 963 mile cycling challenge from John
OGroats down to Lands End.
You can still support the Two Eds by donating to their
JustGiving page here:
www.justgiving.com/fundraising/twoeds

20 Special People
events HRUK
Our fantastic runners

Virgin Money London Marathon

Massive thanks and congratulations to our 22 runners who completed the Virgin Money London
Marathon and raised over 50,000 for Heart Research UK.

Each with inspirational stories and reasons to run Chris was originally inspired to take part in the
each one is a hero in our eyes. Virgin Money London Marathon after witnessing his
brother take part the previous year. His mind was
Chris Sauntson from Corby chose the Virgin
made-up following the tragic passing of close friend,
Money London Marathon as his first ever marathon
Kyle Wilson. Chris says: I decided to do something
and to fundraise for Heart Research UK following
positive to keep his memory alive and help his family
the untimely passing of a close friend who died of
and myself get through it, as well as helping other
heart disease.
people by raising money for Heart Research UK.
The marathon also marked an incredible turning
As well as running the Virgin Money London
point in Chriss life as he continues to turn his life
Marathon, Chris has raised funds for Heart
around following years of heavy drinking. Chris
Research UK by organising a charity football match,
describes the day he sought help for his drink
securing sponsorship from businesses and gained
problem as the best decision in my life and now,
further funds through football betting cards and
over a year later and with amazing support from
charity pots placed in local pubs.
friends and family, Chris is still doing well and making
the most of his second chance at life describing it Chris is determined to raise as much money and
as a miracle. awareness for the charity as possible and he has
raised over 3,000 to date.
After 14 months without a drop, Chris admitted that
my life has completely changed and I feel like a Thank you to everyone for their commitment and
new man. I owe my family and friends a lot of credit fundraising. We hope to achieve even more places
and this is my way of giving back to them as well as and raise even more money in 2018.
paying tribute to Kyle.

Interested? For details visit www.heartresearch.org.uk/events 21

 Were looking forward to more people taking part in 2018.
Keep your eyes on our website:
www.heartresearch.org.uk for more information

Simplyhealth Great North Run 2017

Our 12 runners joined the 57,000 taking part in the worlds biggest half marathon on 10
September. Held since 1981 and famed for the best local support and party atmosphere, its a
truly classic half marathon.
Graham Baines from Sheffield ran The Great North Run to raise money for Heart Research UK, after
being involved with the charity for 21 years.
He supports the charity as his son Alex was born with a narrowed aortic valve which required surgery
at just five months old. He sees his fundraising as a way to give back to the charity and the man who
performed his sons operation. Kevin Watterson, the surgeon who completed the procedure that
replaced Alexs aortic valve, is currently a trustee for Heart Research UK.
21 years on and Graham, his son and Heart Research UK are all celebrating big birthdays this year,
Alex will be 21 and Graham is turning 50 along with Heart Research UK. Although Alex has check-ups
every 12 to 18 months, he is doing very well, he is healthy and currently studying in college.
Graham says that Alexs heart condition has given the family a greater appreciation for spending time
together and he and his family enjoy their weekends walking and going to football matches. Alex and his
dad are big football fans and are planning on touring all the Premier League stadiums together.
Fundraising for Heart Research UK is also very much a family affair and the whole family supported
Graham in his running efforts.
Well done to the Baines family.

22 HRUK Events
Get involved and support HRUK

th see
HR Mid age
e P
UK l a 2 8
i n ds
Whether you want fundraise or volunteer, theres lots of inspirational

n
ways for you to support us. Contact Rachel on 0113 234 7474
or community@heartresearch.org.uk

Join an existing group or start your own Swim the Channel or skydive
Support groups are a great way to bring together We have many fun ways you can fundraise for us.
local people who can help each other, just like our
Why not try our Swim the Channel challenge?
aortic dissection, heart failure and our regional
Swim 22 miles in your (thankfully) warmer local
Lancashire fundraising groups.
pool over a 12 week period.
We can help you join one of these or start your
Want to try something with a bit more adrenaline?
own, including showing you how to organise events
The skys the limit in our skydive challenge. Try this
and order fundraising materials. We can also give
once in a lifetime experience in the name of Heart
you information on research projects in your area.
Research UK.
We would love to run more specialist groups -
getting involved could make all the difference
to someone.

g
Helpin near
ts
hear you

Volunteer Treasure Your Heart

We wouldnt be who we are without the support
of our wonderful volunteers and supporters.
They are the backbone of HRUK and we are always
looking for more special people to join our band
of volunteers.
You can help HRUK by donating unwanted jewellery,
whether its gold, silver, costume, damaged or even
odd. Every piece we receive is auctioned off and
the income is invested in HRUK work.

www.heartresearch.org.uk for more information

Join us on Facebook www.facebook.com/heartresearchuk 23

 Celebrating our 50th anniversary
Turning 50 has inspired us to set ourselves even bigger
goals for the future. Working with our expert research
panels and peer reviewers means we can ensure our
funds reach the very best pioneering projects, helping us
to achieve our aim to create genuine breakthroughs that
truly help heart patients.

1967
Turning 50 has also made us reminisce about our history.
Did you know we were once called National Heart
Research Fund? See how much of our history you know.

1967 The birth of the National Heart Research Fund (NHRF)

It all started in 1967 at Killingbeck Hospital, Leeds (above). Our founder, working heart surgeon Mr David
Watson, was tired of telling heart patients that there was little he could do to help them. Following a difficult
operation on a young boy with lifelong heart problems, he knew enough was enough. The knowledge and
expertise was out there but research was needed to make it safe and practical. Mr Watson could not get
funding so appealed through the local press. The phone began to ring and the NHRF was born.

1970s Funding research teams nationwide and the UKs first

heart transplants
The 70s were an exciting decade for the charity. We helped pay for a Sheffield
study of 16,000 heart valve patients used by the Department of Health to
develop new valves and to prevent complications following surgery. We also
provided new equipment to analyse ECGs and pinpoint heart disease.
Mr Watson also invented the Killingbeck valve a pioneering, reliable and
durable tissue valve thats still used today.
Our proudest achievement though came in 1979 when we funded six of the

1970s
first eight successful UK heart transplants. The Department of Health had told
Sir Terence English that if he could find the money, they would allow him to do
the operations, despite generally being deemed too dangerous. Thats where
we stepped in - donating the equivalent of 750,000 so Sir Terrence could
perform the operations at Papworth Hospital.

24 Heart Research UK
1980s Heart disease and smoking breakthrough
As well as improving existing treatments and surgical techniques, we began to look into the causes

1985
of heart disease, supporting research units across the UK. This included research labs at Freeman
Hospital, Newcastle and studies at Imperial College London where for 12 years, scientists studied blood
flow in the arteries using ultrasound. This led to the discovery that smoking can markedly change the
pattern of arterial blood flow, which can encourage the narrowing of the arteries.

1990s UK first in childrens heart surgery

We funded projects to develop existing
treatments and techniques to be used
safely on children. These included new laser
techniques to clear a way through the tissue
and developing tiny stents.
Researchers worked to improve and extend
the quality of life of children and adults
born with serious heart defects through the
development of two new surgical procedures.
The first, corrected defects to the aortic valve
by replacing it with one of the patients own
natural heart valves; the pulmonary switch
replacement. The second corrected defects to
the hearts chambers by connecting the veins
carrying blood from the body directly to the
lungs, by-passing the defective heart altogether.
The 90s also saw an investment in refining
many of the diagnostics techniques such as
scanning and imaging, helping to develop a
new diagnostic technique called Intravascular
Ultrasound and a new probe that allowed
surgeons to see forward and sideways, reducing
the risk of puncturing the arteries when using a
laser to burn away a blockage in the artery.

2005 Heart Research UK

Weve always been at the forefront of research.
Having achieved Mr Watsons aim of making
surgery safer, we turned our attention to
identifying the root causes of heart disease
and to pioneer innovative devices and
new technologies.
2005 was the year the National Heart Research
Fund became Heart Research UK.

Join us on Facebook www.facebook.com/heartresearchuk 25

 The 21st century
The new millennium introduced the first
permanent, thumb-sized LVAD (Left
Ventricular Assist Device) an artificial
heart pump. Peter Houghton was just
weeks away from death before having the
70,000 Jarvik heart pump. Funded by us,
it allowed Peter to live another eight years

2010
making him the longest surviving person
in the world with an artificial heart a world
record he still holds today.

Babies born with congenital heart disease

We helped scientists in Newcastle to establish one of the most powerful patient databases in the
world to precisely identify the genes from DNA profiles that are responsible for congenital heart
disease. Its legacy is the laboratory based heart simulator used to test the device which has
attracted worldwide recognition.

Heart lung machine development

In the new millennium, the heart lung machine was a standard piece of kit in operating theatres and
researchers were looking at how it could be improved.
Heart Research UK funded an investigation at Imperial College, London into the best types of material
to be used with the heart lung machine to minimise damage to the heart during surgery. But even then,
the heart lung machine did not have to always be used and we supported research at Southampton
General Hospital looking into the role of off- pump surgery versus conventional surgery for certain
patients. In other words, 10 years ago, they were not able to operate on a beating heart.

Stem cells

2012
We funded an exciting innovative project at the James Cook Hospital, Middlesbrough, where the team
grew arteries from the patients own stem cells to be used in heart bypass operations. At the time, it was
really amazing to think that our own cells could be used to repair us.

Heart attack test

Three out of four patients coming to A&E with chest pain are sent home after negative test results for a
heart attack but some will go on to suffer a heart attack.
This group of patients was the focus of Professor Alistair Halls project at Leeds General Infirmary
which developed a blood test with the potential to help with the early detection of heart attacks so that
treatment can be started earlier.

Home monitoring for babies

Mr David Barrons project at the Birmingham Childrens Hospital tested new home monitoring
equipment for parents to assess their childs condition when they bring them home after
heart surgery. Parents gained confidence, worried less day-to-day, were reassured and could make
informed decisions about when to seek medical help.

26 Heart Research UK
Changing NICE guidelines
Professor Martin Thornhill, at the University of Sheffield found that numbers of cases of the life
threatening heart infection, infective endocarditis, had increased since NICE stopped recommending
antibiotic cover to certain heart patients during dental treatment. After our successful campaign, NICE
changed the guideline so that dentists and cardiologists can recommend antibiotic cover when it is in
the best interests of the patient, and means that at-risk patients can make an informed decision about
their treatment.
The impact of our medical research may not be known for years but our aim is to fund research which
benefits patients as soon as possible and to train the experts of tomorrow. We also like to stand out
from the crowd and do things differently and better.

Oxygen and chest pain

Professor John Greenwood, at the University of Leeds,
provided strong evidence that giving unnecessary oxygen
to people with chest pain should be avoided as it could
potentially reduce the amount of oxygen reaching the heart
muscle. This may radically change the way in which we care
for patients with chest pain.

Heart transplantation
Mr Steven Tsui, of Papworth Hospital, was awarded a grant
that was right up our street. There are not enough donor
hearts for everyone that needs a heart transplant. This
project will test whether a new technique can restore the
function of donor hearts that would otherwise be rejected
by transplant teams. If proven to work, this approach would
increase the numbers of suitable donor hearts available so
that more patients with severe heart failure can benefit.

Helping Little Hearts

We are very proud to have been involved in a very unique project that has already helped hundreds
of children and will go on to help thousands more. After treatment for a heart problem, children are
rarely sent home with a rehabilitation programme or any exercise guidelines. In response we funded a
project at the University of Exeter, where researcher Lucy Gowing looked at the best ways to provide
information on exercise to young people with a heart condition, their families and schools. The

2017
result was the Physical Activity Toolkit to provide activity advice and an exercise prescription form
completed by each childs clinician; this allows exercise advice to be tailored to each patients needs, as
no childs heart condition is the same.
For the first time, no child with congenital heart problems would be left to sit on a bench, watching
PE lessons. The Heart Research UK Toolkit and the prescription gives each child, and those who look
after them, the confidence to join in and include exercise in their everyday life from as early an
age as possible.
These resources are now used across the UK and we are delighted to say that Great Ormond Street
Hospital is one of its greatest supporters. We can truly say we have changed childrens and their
families lives for the better. Our next hurdle is to get the NHS to make the use of the Toolkit mandatory
across all cardiac centres.
We are proud that Heart Research UK has been helping hearts near you and will continue to
help people live healthier, happier, longer lives for years to come.

Join us on Facebook www.facebook.com/heartresearchuk 27

 HRUK
in the Midlands
10 Years of Heart Research
UK in the Midlands
2017 was a big year for Heart Research UK with not one but
two special anniversaries. We celebrated 10 years of HRUK
in the Midlands with a very special evening at the Plough
and Harrow Hotel in Birmingham.
Many of the charitys closest supporters, partners, patrons
and ambassadors from around the region were on hand to
help us celebrate such a significant achievement. Guests
were also given the opportunity to hear a presentation from
our Chief Executive Barbara Harpham and TV personality
and HRUK ambassador Sally Bee, featuring updates on many
exciting projects.
The highlight of the evening was when John Lloyd, our Regional
Executive, was presented with a cheque for 58,000 from Mr
John Bill, our first patron in the Midlands. This donation along
with other funds raised during the event, which included a
silent auction, meant we raised 66,000 in just one night.

adi Groups fundraising really adds up

We are delighted that engineering company adi Group has chosen Heart Research UK as their
charity partner for the second year running, raising over 15,000 to date.
Their fundraising events have inspired many different activities, from raffles and dress down days to
tuck shop donations and charity football tournaments. adi Group staff have also organised local runs,
marathons and even bike rides. So it goes without saying that HRUK is thrilled to be working closely with
the company to raise funds for good causes in the local community for another year.

www.heartresearch.org.uk/midlands-events

28 HRUK in the Midlands

A special thank you to adi employees Graham
Bond, Murray Evans and James Smith
Graham has taken part in a number of running events to raise money for the charity in memory
of his brother, going above and beyond by becoming a volunteer for the day, alongside his
wife Sue, at our charity Fete in Stratford upon Avon. Graham also signed up for the gruelling
Birmingham Marathon.

If youd like to spur Graham on and boost his

superb fundraising efforts you can donate on his
dedicated JustGiving page: www.justgiving.
com/fundraising/graham-bond-adi-
fundraising
Huge congratulations to Murray Evans. This super-
runner completed the Robin Hood Marathon in an
amazing time of 3hrs 27 minutes, raising over 400
for HRUK.
And huge congratulations to his colleague, James
Smith, who took on a number of bike ride challenges,
including a 37 mile mountain bike cross country ride.
Not for the faint hearted!
You can support James pedal power and make
a donation to his fundraising on his own justgiving
page: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/
James-Smith149

Raising awareness
of HRUK at the Phoenix Lunch
HRUK were proud to host a special lunch event for Birminghams longest running networking group.
Over 50 guests from the local business community attended giving us the opportunity to highlight
the work of HRUK and secure future support through new partnerships.

Thank you to our very own Lucy Gowings dad who chose
us as his golf clubs charity of the year. Frilford Golf Club,
Oxfordshire has so far raised 10,000.

Contact our Midlands office on 0121 454 1799 29

 Barry Sawbridge Charity Football Tournament
Organised by Barrys son Craig Sawbridge, this prominent football event saw the Barry Sawbridge
Xl take on the Leicester City Legends in support of the Barry Sawbridge Memorial fund, raising
funds for Heart Research UK in the Midlands.
A tough Leicester City Legends line-up included former Leicester City players Matt Elliott, Steve Guppy,
Julian Joachim, Steve Walsh and Muzzy Izzett alongside boxer Rendall Munroe and Chris Edwards from
the band Kasabian. The Premier League trophy also put in an appearance during the event.
Barry and his wife Maria Sawbridge became fantastic representatives and fundraisers for HRUK. With
the support of family and friends, they raised well over 5,000. Sadly, Barry passed away after suffering
a heart attack in December 2015. Shortly after his death his family set up The Barry Sawbridge Memorial
Fund to continue Barrys legacy of supporting our research in the Midlands.
We are incredibly grateful for the generosity of the Sawbridge family and their friends. HRUK will
continue to work in the Midlands to ensure that The Barry Sawbridge Memorial Fund remains a fitting
tribute to the tireless work Barry, Maria, and now their son Craig, have done for our charity.
Donations to the Barry Sawbridge Memorial Fund can be made online at
www.barry-sawbridge.muchloved.com

Central Health Derby 10K

21 runners from Derby based companies Babington Group and EKV Design, a HRUK Midlands
charity partner, ran the Central Health Derby 10K in aid of HRUK.
Sarah Naden (EKV Design) was just one of the runners. I was incredibly proud to be running for
Heart Research UK and to be part of a wonderful team full of family and friends. I would like to thank
everybody who took part for their contributions to raising money and awareness for a charity that
is very important to me. The Derby 10K was a fabulous event to take part in due to the positivity &
support from other runners and the crowd.

30 HRUK in the Midlands

 Family Life Club Booklet
Were proud to say HRUK was once again on the cover of the
popular Central England magazine, Family Life Club, with
one of our top fundraisers and supporters Amber Buckle
the star cover girl. There was also a double page feature
introducing the launch of the charitys Heart Camps appeal
for youngsters suffering from heart conditions.
This was our third article published in the magazine, which has a
readership of over 28,000. Were very grateful for the 1,000 we
received and the opportunity to be able to highlight the work of
the charity to so many people in and around our region.

Natalie Beardall Elonex Digital Signs

Well done to Natalie Beardall who completed
the Two Castles run in memory of Chris Pate
and all of her sponsorship money raised will
go towards the Nick Bill Memorial Fund within
Heart Research UK.
You can read more about her story and
sponsor her here: www.justgiving.com/
fundraising/natalie-beardall3
Wed like to extend a huge thank you to Elonex Digital
Signs. Over the years Elonex have provided us with
state-of-the-art digital screening completely free of
charge, helping us raise awareness of HRUK at many
of our charity events in Birmingham City Centre. In
total they have donated 80,000 worth of digital
screen advertising a very generous gesture that has
made a huge impact on our fundraising.

Even more people to thank:

Joan Frances OShea and family for their In Memory donation of 100
Waitrose Harborne, Easter Bag Packing - raised 631.50
To our partners in the Midlands
for raising:
To all who donated much
Family Life Club | 1,000
appreciated raffle prizes:
The Vaughan Singers | 100
Kim Bailey Racing, Leicester City
Sing2Gether, Cantare Choir
& Voices Entwined | 313 Football Club, Avon Valley Railway,
Charlecote Park, Cheshire Military
Waitrose, Harborne Community
Matters Scheme | 330
Museum, Packwood House, Red House
Stables, Roller World Derby, Snowdome
The White Horse, Harborne | 155
Tamworth, Sudeley Castle & Gardens,
BMG Research | 150 The Dean Heritage Centre, Wye Valley
GJW Turner Trust | 2,000 donation Butterfly Zoo, Worcester Racecourse.
NCP | 600

Contact our Midlands office on 0121 454 1799 31

 Healthy heart feature
Salt and your health
In ancient times salt was a valuable commodity traded across the world;
nowadays its hard to avoid salt, especially in the western diet, as the food
industry (and many a chef) relies heavily on salt to stimulate our taste buds.
Too much salt in our diet spells trouble for our hearts and arteries as it can
lead to high blood pressure and increase our risk of heart disease, stroke and
heart failure. A high salt intake is also linked to other conditions such as kidney
disease, osteoporosis, stomach cancer and is thought to worsen the symptoms
of diabetes, asthma and Alzheimers.

The average UK adult
has a salt intake of 8.1g per
day, over a third more than
the recommended 6g daily
maximum
For children the max is
lower: 2gms for 13yrs; 3gms
for 46yrs and 5gms
for 710s
75% of our salt intake
comes from processed
foods 15% from natural
sources and 10% is added
during cooking or eating

Become salt-savvy
As adults, we should be eating less than 6g a day (a teaspoon) and aim towards 3g/day.
Ban the salt shaker from the kitchen and the Breakfast cereals can contain hidden salt so
dining table; use herbs, spices, garlic, lemon try porridge or home-made muesli
juice and pepper to flavour food
Watch out for olives, anchovies, soy sauce,
About 75% of the salt we eat is already in many pickles, ketchup and chutneys that have lots
of the foods we buy, like processed foods, of hidden salt. Minimise salty snacks such as
ready meals or most of the food in a box, crisps, nuts and crackers
bag or carton. Cook from scratch wherever
Gravy mixes and stock cubes are generally salt
possible using plenty of herbs and spices
heavy so make your own or use half a stock
instead of salt
cube; make large quantities to freeze in
Check food labels for salt content. re-useable portions
A different brand may be a lot less salty and
there are reduced salt versions out there too
(e.g. baked beans)
Dont be tricked; some food manufacturers list
sodium on the nutritional label, just times the
sodium value by 2.5 to get the salt content

32 Healthy Heart feature

Food Standard Agency traffic labelling guide:
Salt content (per 100g food)
Low 0.3g or less
Medium Medium between 0.3g and 1.5g
High More than 1.5g

Salt sensitive?
Research shows that black people of African descent living in
the UK are particularly sensitive to salt and that reducing their
salt intake leads to a higher reduction in blood pressure than in
the white population. People of South Asian origin tend to be
more at risk of high blood pressure, heart disease and diabetes,
and are also thought to be more sensitive to the negative
impact of a high salt diet.

Na, K and bananas

When it comes to blood pressure, its not just a
sodium (Na) issue. Another chemical, potassium
(K), also plays a role. Eating too much sodium can
raise blood pressure and increase your risk of
heart disease and stroke, but if you also have a low
potassium intake, the risk is further increased.
Potassium is a mineral that plays a key role in the
function of all cells, tissues, and organs in the
human body and is essential for muscle function,
including the heart muscle. Its easy to achieve a
healthy intake of potassium naturally through the
food you eat. Here are some good sources:
bananas and other fruits like oranges,
apples, pears, peaches, grapefruit,
tomatoes and prunes
vegetables (carrots, broccoli and potatoes)
fish, shellfish, meat and poultry
eggs and dairy products (keep them low-fat)
unsalted nuts
Remember that steaming is the best when it
comes to preserving the minerals and vitamins
that are naturally found in vegetables.

Salt myth Test your salt

Be it garlic salt, sea salt, rock salt or natural salt,
they all contain sodium so are no better for you.
knowledge
Be adventurous with herbs and spices to flavour Can you put these foods in order of MOST to
your food instead. LEAST salt content?
bowl of cornflakes | slice of bread | packet of plain
crisps | half tin of baked beans | matchbox size
piece of cheese
3. small bowl cornflakes (0.47g) 4. slice of bread (0.39g) 5. packet of plain crisps (0.38g)
Answer - MOST salt to LEAST salt: 1. half tin baked beans (1.54g) 2. matchbox size cheddar cheese (0.53g)

Join us on Facebook www.facebook.com/heartresearchuk 33

 Latest HRUK and Subway
Grants awarded
In the last 10 years, weve awarded 2.1m to
community projects operating in the UK.
Thanks to our partnership with Subway, we are
able to continue to award funding of up to 10,000
to selected projects that promote heart-healthy
lifestyles to help communities to live healthier,
happier, longer lives.

Heart Research UK and Subway Healthy Heart Grants are available for not for profit organisations
in 12 regions across the UK:

Carlton Hendon FC Supporters Society helps kick start

a healthier heart lifestyle
Hendon FC Supporters Society is bringing the fun of heart fitness to over 350 primary school children.
They will learn about how to keep their hearts healthy through five weekly exercise and healthy eating
sessions. These inspiring sessions will include football, fitness classes, walking and cycling as well as
classroom-based education on how to keep their hearts healthy.
Each child will be given their own heart health booklet to take home and share with their families,
encouraging parents to become role models for a healthier lifestyle. Pupils from the project will also
have the opportunity to meet players from Hendon FC at their home ground.

Anglia Support 4 Sight helps promote heart health

The Support 4 Your Heart project talks to blind and partially sighted adults, inspiring them to support
their hearts through a range of activities such as heart happy cookery workshops and learning how to
prepare healthy and hearty foods with a good balance of physical activity.
The weekly club based in Chelmsford offers sport and exercise taster sessions to 50 low-active
blind and partially sighted adults, each one supported by a volunteer or buddy. Participants can also
develop their cookery skills with simple, healthy recipes in large print and be given the confidence to
take part in physical activity sessions alongside their sighted buddies.

34 HRUK and
Healthy
Subway
Hearts

Healthy
GrantsHeart Grants
Latest HRUK and Subway
Grants awarded
Yorkshire Halifax Wheelchair Tag Rugby Club inspires schools
The Halifax Wheelchair Tag Rugby Club will use the exciting world of wheelchair sports to connect
with 315 Year 5, 6 and 7 pupils from three different local schools and teach them about heart health.
Classroom sessions followed by a wheelchair sports session for both able-bodied and disabled
children will give pupils the chance to learn in a fun and interactive way, before an end of project festival
will assess what the children have learnt.

Northern Ireland Football vs. Fat kicks unhealthy living into touch
The Football vs. Fat leisure league is a physical activity and weight loss programme aimed at inspiring
overweight men to become more physically active, lose weight and lead a healthier lifestyle through
football. The project will help to get inactive men more active and help overweight men lose weight
by motivating them to change lifestyle behaviours. Points will be awarded to winning teams as well as
for team weight loss. Qualified public health specialists will also be invited to the sessions to promote
the Choose to Live Better Campaign and encouraging Healthy Heart messages will be featured on the
webpage and social media.

Wales Ozzie the Osprey helps spread the word about healthy hearts
Ospreys in the Community have a new and innovative educational project. The initiative will teach 900
children all about healthy hearts, nutrition and being active whilst visiting and experiencing the Home of
the Ospreys in Swansea, Neath and Bridgend.
The children will use tablet devices and apps to learn about the risks of eating an unhealthy diet and
being inactive and the direct effect it has on heart health. The app will track what the children learn and
share it with parents to help them engage with the project too.
In two heart health sessions, one at the stadium and one in school, the children will receive a mixture of
educational and physical activity challenges. The Clubs mascot, Ozzie the Osprey, will also be on hand
encouraging children to find ways for Ozzie to improve his heart health.

West Country KidzFit makes fitness and heart health fun

KidzFit is a high energy and visually engaging health and fitness programme for 900 primary school
children. The sessions will focus on healthy eating, keeping active and information about how their
bodies and hearts work. A music fitness element has been developed to appeal to children who dont
consider themselves to be sporty.
There will be three benchmark exercises such as the number of star jumps completed in a minute
both at the start and end of each session. The results will be monitored across each group to measure
improvements in fitness.

HRUK and Subway Healthy Heart Grants 35

 Latest HRUK and Subway
Grants awarded
Scotland The Feel Good Womens Group
Women in the most ethnically diverse part of Scotland will get the chance to exercise and learn
how to make heart healthy food and exercise for free thanks to a Healthy Heart Grant awarded
to The Feel Good Womens Group.
Over 50 women in the Govanhill area, of Glasgow will benefit from cooking demonstrations and fitness
classes led by a qualified instructor.
The Feel Good Womens Group help women with a variety of illnesses, including anxiety, depression,
obesity and diabetes, improve their physical health. Due to the diversity of the community, including
ethnicity, culture and deprivation, some women in Govanhill are at a higher risk of developing type 2
diabetes and coronary heart disease.
Rizwana Saeed, Treasurer The Feel Good Womens Group said:
We were delighted to receive funding from Heart Research UK and Subway. We wanted to organise a
place where women from a local community where over 60 languages are spoken, can come together
to make friends, be safe and exercise freely regardless of age, fitness or capability.
The results have been outstanding and shows how passionate the women of this great community are
about living healthier lives.

36 HRUK and
Healthy
Subway
Hearts

Healthy
GrantsHeart Grants
HRUK and Subway
Grants update
Granada Genie in the Gutter
Whole-Hearted is a new project combining education and physical activity to improve the heart health
of people recovering from addiction and mental ill health. The 10 week course will help 100 service users
through different physical activities, and interactive workshops on stopping smoking, nutrition/weight
management and the heart and mental health.

Tyne Tees Northumberland Community Enterprise Limited

Cooking for the Heart aims to tackle unhealthy diets in the high deprivation area of Stobhill one
of the most deprived areas of the UK. Over 90 adults will take part in six cookery sessions to learn
how to cook healthier food on a budget, whilst 20 children will also how to grow and cook their own
home-grown vegetables.

Tyne Tees YMCA North Tyneside

45 young people, who have experienced homelessness and now are either living in supported
accommodation or who attend YMCA youth programmes, will have free access to a YMCA gym and
fitness classes, thanks to Grow, Cook, Train and Eat. Theyll also learn how to grow fruit and veg and
prepare healthy meals.

Meridian East Kent Mencap

The Fit Start programme is a 10 week health and wellbeing project for people with learning disabilities.
Participants will learn about healthy eating, hygiene awareness and physical activity, and theyll also
receive lifestyle coaching too. The aim is to make it more likely theyll access resources such as the
community leisure centre.

Meridian The Seaview Project

Adults in recovery from mental health and substance misuse face challenges. The Heart of Seaview
aims to inspire these vulnerable adults to become physical active, leading them to having happier and
healthier hearts in a community where healthy choices are limited. Activities will include football, running
and even bowls.

Northern Ireland Errigal Ciaran GAC

The Errigal Ciaran Operation Transformation Grant will help isolated adults in the most deprived and
remote areas of Northern Ireland access GP and leisure services, whilst building their confidence to
exercise through a range of diverse and exciting activities including spinning, kettlercise, yoga and running.

HRUK and Subway Healthy Heart Grants 37

 Our corporate
partners
Subway
Our partnership with Subway has led to a lot of
exciting events.
The Heart Research UK and Subway Helping
Hearts Family 5K fun runs were more popular
than ever, with over 14,500 runners across the UK
taking part.
This included the Brogan family, who completed
their second Edinburgh 5K after various family
members were affected by heart disease, and
Tanya, a mum of one, who ran in Cambridge in
memory of her late stepfather.
31-year-old mum Laura from Northern Ireland, suffers from Wolffe-Parkinson-Syndrome - a condition
that causes the heart to beat unusually fast for periods of time. She wanted to prove that anyone with a
heart condition can live a fulfilling and active life.
In June the Subway TUKI Convention took place at the Exhibition Centre, Liverpool. It was a memorable
event, with the silent auction at the Gala dinner raising over 10k. We would also like to say a huge thank
you again to the West Country who were awarded with the Heart Research UK Finest Fundraising Region
(FFR) Award 2016. Martin Graves, FAF Board Chair for the West Country, was presented the award by
Sam Turner, Heart Research UKs Chief Operating Officer. Stores are currently competing for the FFR
Award 2017 read our next Pulse to find out the winner.
And finally stores and customers in Anglia raised money through the Subway Customer
Appreciation scheme. Heart Research UK was also on hand to offer free blood pressure checks
to customers in Peterborough.

38 Our corporate partners

Damart
Damart in Bingley were the first to achieve their Healthy Heart Mark gold
award and for over eight years have conscientiously promoted heart
health, not just amongst their colleagues but with their customers. Their
catalogue promotions have paid for Healthy Heart grants in Bradford.
Our current campaign with Damart called #LovingHearts, tackles the misconceptions
associated with women and heart disease, to give effective advice, tips and guidance on
how to look after your heart.
Did you know that women are more than three times as likely to die from coronary heart
disease as breast cancer? Probably not and our campaign helps women to understand the
risks associated with coronary heart disease and the actions they can take today to reduce
those risks. You can read more on our findings from our womens #LovingHearts survey on
our website.
As part of our current #LovingHearts campaign, Damart is donating 4 to Heart
Research UK for each of its floral scarves sold, as modelled by Heart Research UK
ambassador Sally Bee. You can purchase this lovely floral Damart scarf by visiting the
Damart website and searching for floral scarf. A perfect Christmas present!
www.damart.co.uk/F-178388-accessories-w/P-353886-floral-scarf

Emerald
Two Yorkshire institutions celebrated their 50th
anniversaries in 2017, so what better way than to
celebrate together.
Bingleys Emerald Group Publishing held year-long
fundraising activities, including 83 Emerald staff
who took on Yorkshires Three Peaks. They raised
over 30,000.

a i s ed
This money will help fund a Novel and Emerging
R 875 ,
34
Technologies Grant project at the University of
Leicester. This project aims to develop a simple, accurate and cost-effective
test to predict which patients are at risk of sudden cardiac death and whose
lives cold be saved with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD). So far
Emerald Group Publishings support is even more poignant following the sudden death
of their Chairman Martin Fojt, due to a heart attack in 2014. This inspired Emerald and
its community to really get behind fundraising for HRUK in what is a very special year for both
teams, and a perfect way to celebrate Martins life and work.
Championed by Melissa Fojt, a publisher at Emerald Publishing and Martin Fojts daughter, and along
with Sara Price, the Emerald Charity Champion, the Emerald team completed the tough Yorkshire
Three Peaks task raising thousands of pounds and have continued their efforts to support us with
various events including a corporate ball in July.
Further information on Emerald Group Publishings charitable initiatives can be found here:
www.emeraldat50.com/charity

Join our Healthy Heart Mark scheme call 0113 297 6206 39
 DS Smith
Healthy Heart Mark
The Heart Research Healthy Heart Mark scheme is aimed
at recognising employers efforts to improve the wellbeing
of employees by implementing health initiatives at work.
There are three levels bronze, silver and gold and
businesses achieve the ratings by demonstrating that they
are encouraging staff to a healthier lifestyle.
Were pleased to announce that three DS Smith UK Packaging sites have been awarded their full Healthy
Heart Mark employer awards by earning their gold certificates in 2017. The sites at Hinckley, Redditch
and Belper have all shown a remarkable commitment to employee health by implementing a range of
activities to help keep hearts healthy at work.
Hinckley was the first to strike gold, achieved through a canteen refurbishment and introduction
of a Wellbeing Wednesday menu. They have also created their Healthy Heart Hub, a library space
for information leaflets and other health promotion activities. The hub even boasts an on-site
exercise bike!
Redditch completed their gold award by rolling out Good moves on the bottom line, an emotional
intelligence and stress awareness course for Line Managers.
The team at Belper introduced an innovative healthy option loyalty card and took steps to ensure they
kept up their health credentials by including their hospitality catering in their healthy eating initiatives.
Belper also created stimulating posters to promote helpful stretching exercises that all their desk-based
staff could undertake throughout their working day.

In the packaging and manufacturing industries, safety is often prioritised above health but we
know that a healthy and happy workforce is integral to running a successful business.
Were immensely proud of the achievements of the three DS Smith UK Packaging sites
and I would urge any team of senior managers who might be considering cutting health
in the workplace programmes to think again. Invest in health and the benefits will speak
for themselves.
Malcom Cotterell, Head of Engagement and Communications,
for DS Smiths UK Packaging Division

40 Our corporate partners

DS Smith have been involved in even

in e Pa
G lve e 1
se

et d 5
vo g
more fundraising for us too.

a i s ed
R 00
3,0
Several sites took part in their third annual football tournament. Held in the Wirral and hosted by
the companys Ellesmere Port factory, it proved to be a fun-filled and action-packed day for both
staff and their families.
And last but not least, 25 Graduates and Key Developers from all around Europe tackled a tricky
combination of hills, woodlands, water, and tons and tons of mud in the Midlands Half Tough Mudder
assault course.
The whole company should be very proud of their achievements, as leaders and employees worked
alongside each other to raise money and have fun.
Thank you DS Smith.

Join our Healthy Heart Mark scheme call 0113 297 6206 41
Limitations and exclusions apply to Fish Insurance policies. 15% discount applies to Travel Insurance policies purchased online only. Terms and conditions
apply. These offers are not to be used in conjunction with any other promotion or discount. Offer valid until 30.06.2018. Calls to 0333 numbers are usually
chargeable at a local rate from both UK landlines and mobile phones. These calls are usually included within network providers' "free minutes" packages.
Fish Insurance is a trading name of Fish Admmistration Limited which is authonsed and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority for insurance
mediation activities only under FCA reference 310172. Fish Admmistration Limited is a company registered in England and Wales with company no 4214119.
Here's how to support the work we do. Thank you.
1
Id like to make a donation to Heart Research UK
Please complete and return to Freepost RLYL-AGUE-SSBZ, Suite 12D, Josephs Well, Leeds, LS3 1AB
or donate online www.heartresearch.org.uk/support
I donate by cheque (payable to Heart Research UK) or I authorise you to debit my Mastercard / Visa /
Maestro account (delete as appropriate) with the above amount. Card Number
Valid from / Expiry Date / Issue No
Signature Date / / Prefer to donate every month?
Would you like a receipt? Yes No See box 4 (below)

Make your gift worth even more at 2 4

no extra cost to you. Id like to make a regular donation
to Heart Research UK
Signed Date
I would like to donate every month until further notice
I am a UK taxpayer and understand that if I pay less Income Tax and/or Capital Gains Tax in the current tax starting on / /
year than the amount of Gift Aid claimed on all my donations it is my responsibility to pay any difference.
Please notify the charity if you: Name of Bank Postcode
want to cancel this declaration change your name or home address no longer pay sufficient tax
on your income and/or capital gains Name of account holder
If you pay Income Tax at the higher or additional rate and want to receive the additional tax relief due to
you, you must include all your Gift Aid donations on your Self-Assessment tax return or ask HM Revenue Account Number
and Customs to adjust your tax code.
REF Sort Code
3 Signature Date / /
Save us money This authority replaces any previous instruction to Heart Research UK or the National Heart Research Fund for the credit of
Heart Research UK Account 30182923 Sort Code 20-48-46 Please allow one month from today.
Emails are free for us to send. Please provide your email
below if you would like to help us save money. Please tick this box if you would like to hear from Heart Research UK in
the future. We do not pass your details to other organisations.
Email:
DOB: / /
heartresearch.org.uk
By telling us your date of birth we can save valuable funds by contacting 0113 234 7474
you about the most relevant information.
info@heartresearch.org.uk

43
Registered Charity No. 1044821. Registered Office: Suite 12D, Josephs Well, Leeds LS3 1AB Company limited by guarantee No. 3026813. Registered in England.
Thanks to you Heart Research UK
has been helping hearts for 50 years.
Your money has funded pioneering medical research into heart disease. Keep those you love
around for longer with a gift to Heart Research UK.
Please fill in the form on the inside back page and send it to us here at Heart Research UK. You can make
a one off donation or sign up to regular giving, its up to you.
Heart Research UK has never, and will never, knock on your door, stop you in the street or ring you to ask
for donations unless we have your permission. We like a personal approach, so if we want to contact
you we do it ourselves, and we certainly dont pay anyone to do it. We treat people how we would like to
be treated ourselves.

Thanks to our partners

If you would like to discuss a bespoke partnership for your business then please contact
corporate@heartresearch.org.uk or call 0113 234 7474

Heart Research UK, Suite 12D, Josephs Well, Leeds LS3 1AB
or call 0113 234 7474 Fax: 0113 297 6208
Email: mail@heartresearch.org.uk
Website: www.heartresearch.org.uk

Registered Charity No. 1044821 Registered Office: Suite 12D, Josephs Well, Leeds LS3 1AB
Company limited by guarantee No. 3026813 Registered in England.