AN Elstead wellness group did its bit to raise awareness of cardiovascular disease – the world’s most common cause of death – last Thursday by taking part in an event to highlight World Heart Day.

The Elstead Body Transformation Challenge run by Katie Shorrock held a special workout to highlight the day, before coming together to form a heart-shaped logo as a group at the end of the session.

Group members were also delighted to welcome back from Rio, Paralympic gold-medal winner Rachel Morris who joined in with the exercises and shared tips on how to keep focused on fitness and health goals.

World Heart Day is the World Heart Federation’s biggest platform for raising awareness about cardiovascular disease (CVD). Heart disease is currently responsible for 31 per cent of deaths worldwide with over 23 million predicted to die from CVD by 2030.

Katie said: “For the past 10 years I have been working in our community helping anyone from the very fit to those who are looking to get into shape and lose weight. So when I found out about World Heart Day I wanted to get involved.

“Our Elstead groups have always been about encouraging a healthy active lifestyle that can make a lasting difference to the quality of our lives.

“Having Rachel in the group has given my members lots of inspiration. We are all so proud of what she achieved in Rio and it was really special to have her back with us and joining in this event.

“I hope we can soon start up more groups in the Farnham area and help many more people to be healthier.”

Anyone who would like to find out more about the Elstead Body Transformation Challenge and future groups can call Katie on 0781684775.