Blood pressure monitors are now available to borrow free of charge from all libraries across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

The scheme is being launched during Know your Numbers Week (September 2-8) - a national campaign encouraging people to check their blood pressure at home.

Members of the public can borrow the monitors in the same way they would borrow a book. All you need is a library card.

Anyone with a library card can borrow the machines for up to three weeks at a time. People are advised to record their blood pressure over a seven-day period and then send the readings to their GP surgery. The surgery will review the results and let you know if there are any concerns.

Councillor Carol Mould, portfolio holder for Neighbourhoods at Cornwall Council, said: “This initiative is another wonderful example of how the libraries are evolving to support local communities.

“We’ve successfully trialled this scheme at some of our libraries and I’m delighted to see it rolled out across Cornwall.”

Councillor Andy Virr, portfolio holder for Public Health at Cornwall Council, said: “Around a third of adults in the UK have high blood pressure, although many will not realise it.

“If left untreated high blood pressure can lead to serious problems like heart attacks or strokes so it’s really important to Know Your Numbers.

“Lifestyle changes and blood pressure medicines can reduce high blood pressure but the key is identifying any problems early.”

Residents in Cornwall can find out more about their local library and become a member on the Cornwall Council website.

Residents on the Isles of Scilly can join by popping into St Mary’s Library.