A ground-breaking cardiac clinic is preparing for its next screening session – and is appealing for those who want to be tested to come forward. 

The facility, which has been established by CRY (Cardiac Risk in the Young) is one of only a handful in the country. 

The initiative at Colchester General Hospital was first set up in May and has proved a great success. 

So far about 50 people aged between 14 and 35 have been seen and five of those have been sent for further checks. 

The clinic at Colchester came about following pressure from the parents of 17-year-old Frinton youngster Andy Gard, who died from a sudden cardiac death more than seven years ago. 

His mother Caroline Gard said she was delighted with how the scheme had gone so far and the fact that it had also raised awareness about the condition. 

“The good thing is that although five people have been identified for further checks, all of them were given the all-clear,” she said. 

Mrs Gard worked with health bosses and doctors to get the initiative established. 

Andy, who went to Colchester Royal Grammar School and played hockey, was a very fit teenager.  He died just before his 18^th birthday. 

The clinic gives ECG tests at a cost of £35, but CRY has funds earmarked to help those who cannot afford it. 

Mrs Gard said that the maximum capacity was about 40 people per session and any problems which were picked were then referred back through the NHS. 

The next clinic will be staged at Colchester General Hospital on January 22. 

Anyone who falls within the age range and would like to book a place, or requires more information, should ring 01255 673598 and leave a message.