A CARDIAC rehabilitation instructor at Kidderminster Hospital is taking a stand against heart disease by competing in the British Heart Foundation's (BHF) Wyre Forest Trail Run.

Lisa Holland, of Kidderminster, will be taking part in the 10km event in Wyre Forest for the seventh year.

This year's event takes place on Sunday, March 16 and the BHF is urging runners to take part.

Ms Holland said: "I have been working in cardiac rehabilitation for seven years and have seen the devastating effect that heart disease can have on people of all ages.

"However, I have also seen the hugely positive transformation in people who go on to receive rehabilitative treatment. It’s this kind of care that the BHF offers to patients and their families, which is very inspirational and well worthy of support.”

The 37-year-old currently runs phase four cardiac rehab classes at Kidderminster Hospital and sees 150 heart patients a week.

The classes are the final stage in a patient’s rehabilitation programme looking at long-term maintenance of their lifestyle changes and physical activity.

She also is a volunteer walk leader in Kidderminster and encourages people to get active.

“We all need to take our health seriously, especially the health of our hearts," she added. "So as well as doing the run myself this year, I will also be volunteering to do the warm up before the event.”

Entry for the 5km or 10km trail run costs £12 for adults and £5 for children. Supporters are also asked to raise as much money as possible to help fight against coronary heart disease and fund essential research.

To register call 0845 130 8663, visit bhf.org.uk/wyre or email events@bhf.org.uk