NEARLY 300 people took the chance to have a check up without having to make an appointment at Alton’s annual free Health Fest, staged at Alton Assembly Rooms.

The initiative was sponsored by East Hampshire District Council and organised by the Wilson Practice and Chawton Park Surgery patient participation groups.

There were a variety of health tests available for everyone, for lung function, blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar, with a doctor present to discuss the results.

Information on screening programmes, weight loss, giving blood, prevention of falls, smoking and other issues were also available.

In addition, Alton Sports Centre had a display of exercise machines, with advice for all ages on keeping fit, which proved popular.

At the end of the day the organising committee said how pleased it was the awareness drive had gone so well and that they hope to repeat it next year.