FREE health checks are being offered through Porlock Community Library for eligible villagers aged 40 to 74 years.

The service is part of the NHS Health Check national programme designed to assess the health of somebody’s heart and blood vessels, their cardiovascular health, and identify whether they may be at higher risk of developing certain serious conditions.

The conditions covered by the checks include heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease, and stroke.

People in the age bracket with no pre-diagnosed heart conditions and who have not had a check in the past five years can book their places before the end of February.

Somerset Council is encouraging eligible adults to take up the free offer and ‘take a proactive step toward better long-term health’.

For people older than 65 years, the checks also include information on the early signs of dementia, as some risk factors overlap.

A spokesperson said: “With expert advice available and clear next steps tailored to each individual, it is an invaluable tool for staying healthy.”

Somerset director of public health Alison Bell said: “Even if you are feeling great, if you are over 40 you may be at risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, diabetes, or dementia.

“Getting your free NHS health check with our skilled and supportive team can help you to reduce your risks and stay healthy.”

The NHS Health Check typically lasts 20 to 30 minutes and is delivered by a trained healthcare professional such as a nurse, pharmacist, or healthcare assistant.

During an appointment, the practitioner will ask some simple questions about the person and their health, family history, and any medication they take.

They will measure height, weight, and waist, check blood pressure, run a quick blood test for cholesterol and sugar levels , and provide a personal risk calculation for cardiovascular disease.