THOUSANDS of lives could be saved or dramatically improved as a result of The BIG Bolton Health Check, according to leading doctor Ian Caldwell.

Dr Caldwell is a partner at the Swan Lane Medical Centre in Daubhill, based in one of the most deprived areas of Bolton.

Huge numbers of his patients suffer heart attacks, or have heart disease or strokes, and he believes the 10-minute assessment could drastically improve the quality of life for many of his patients.

Dr Caldwell, aged 55, said: "I spend roughly a third of my time dealing with people who have had heart attacks or are at a high risk of developing heart disease.

"These tests could significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and that can only have a positive impact. Not only in terms of saving lives but heart disease can have a devastating impact on people's lives."

It is estimated as many as 10,000 people could be at a high risk of developing heart disease within the next decade in Bolton.

If The BIG Bolton Health Check shows someone is at risk, doctors have stressed they do not necessarily need to be treated with medication and can reduce their risk making simple lifestyle changes, such as giving up smoking, eating more healthily and doing more exercise.

Dr Caldwell said: "This definitely isn't just about the use of medication. There are a range of things we can help patients with to reduce their risk. There are only positive aspects to having The BIG Bolton Health Check."

The GP's surgery, which has a high number of patients from ethnic minority backgrounds who are at a greater risk of developing heart disease, is just one of the places local people can have The BIG Bolton Health Check.

Supermarkets, DIY stores, cafes, pubs, community events, barbers, betting shops and religious centres are also places where the tests will be carried out.