A CARDIAC rehabilitation programme is to get a £45,000 extension as part of a bid to tackle the high death rate from heart disease in the Wear Valley.

A successful application for Government funding to extend Bishop Auckland Hospital's cardiac rehabilitation/exercise referral scheme will mean more access for patients who have suffered heart attacks or other forms of heart disease.

Last year, about 150 people benefited from the scheme, which is based at the Woodhouse Close Leisure Centre, Bishop Auckland.

The money will see a further 13 exercise machines installed at the leisure centre, to assist in the programme, which focuses on introducing people to a healthier lifestyle and incorporates diet and exercise issues.

Andrew Frankcom, leisure facilities manager, for Wear Valley District Council, said the authority, the Dales Primary Care Group, Bishop Auckland Hospital and local doctors have all contributed to the programme, which has helped thousands of people since it was established.

He said: "Wear Valley ranks amongst the worst in the country in respect of adult life expectancy.

"Many cases are as a result of very high incidences of coronary heart disease and other related ailments, which are generally a product of adverse lifestyle choices such as poor diet, high levels of smoking and lack of exercise."

The new equipment will replace the leisure centre's squash courts area.

Mr Frankcom said: "The area is ideal because it provides ground floor access for our target group, many of whom experience access difficulties.

"Squash will continue to be provided by Wear Valley District Council at Glenholme Leisure Centre, Crook, and regular squash playing members of the Wear Fit Club are being given the option to play at nearby King James Community College."

The cardiac rehabilitation programme helps people to regain their confidence, and many taking part in it have reported feeling healthier and better than they did before they became ill.

It involves a four-to-six week rehabilitation course entailing the use of cardiovascular gym equipment, aerobic exercise, swimming and advice on diet