THE story of how stress changed the life of a motivational speaker will feature at a special event.

'A Change of Heart' will feature Gill Smith who suffered a stress-induced heart attack aged just 43.

But inspirational Ms Smith decided to use her experience to help others to change their lives using exercise, massage and mindfulness.

Winner of the Rossendale Business Awards last year, she manages Connect Health and Wellbeing and Inspire -The Wellbeing Academy.

Blackburn Cllr Maureen Maureen Bateson, who is championing women’s issues in the borough, said: I’m really pleased to see such a great event being held and would encourage women to get involved.”

A £5 entry donation for the event is requested from non-members.

Proceeds from the event will be shared between charity of Ms Smith's choice, the British Heart Foundation and Blackburn Bees WI.

A selection of tea, coffee and light refreshments will be available on the night.

The event will take place on Tuesday, January 30 from 7.30pm at Ivy Street Community Centre, Blackburn.

It is open to all women aged 18 and over and is free for members.