HEALTH chiefs staging a seminar on preventing heart disease have described the problem as a "deadly new plague".

The Blackburn, Hyndburn and Ribble Valley NHS Trust is staging the free seminar at Ewood Park tomorrow to teach local people about the dangers of heart disease and promote healthier living.

Dr Ahmed Shihadah, staff grade physician at Queen's Park Hospital, who will be presenting the seminar, said: "We have heard in the past about the plague and people are alarmed from just the sound of a plague, or small pox or any other illness.

"But unfortunately we now have a disease, which can kill more people than the plague and smallpox together, and this is heart attacks. Unfortunately, many people are not aware of how to prevent this deadly new plague. We hope by our seminar that people will understand how to protect themselves against it."

The evening, which runs from 7pm until 9pm, with doors open at 6.20pm, will also include a range of health promotion advice and information stands including testing blood pressure, healthy eating, stopping smoking and alcohol limits.

There will also be a chance to learn more about the hospitals new PALS service - Patient, Advice and Liaison Service.

Margaret Eastham, health promoting hospitals manager for the trust, will also be a guest speaker. She said: "This is a wonderful opportunity for people to come and get the latest health information which can really help to improve their health, simply and effectively."

The event will be held in the premier suite. For details ring 01254 293014 or 01254 293526.