A REDDITCH man is hoping to lose pounds in weight and raise pounds in cash for the British Heart Foundation (BHF).

Rob Haynes, 56, who weighs 22 stone, is taking part with 15 others in a sponsored weight loss challenge organised at Fit4Less gym.

He is now going to the gym every day before work and being encouraged by trainer Paul Simpson who specialises in weight loss, muscle correction and nutrition. Mr Haynes’ wife Angela is also helping him reach his goal of losing five stone by ensuring he eats a balanced healthy diet.

In November 2009, My Haynes suffered a heart attack at work. He remembers feeling clammy and having difficulty breathing when a colleague called an ambulance.

There was an ambulance passing nearby which enabled him to be in hospital within 10 minutes.

He is now taking medication to try and prevent further heart problems. Unfortunately, he had to change his job which did not involve so much physical activity, and put on lots of weight.

He said: “The treatment of heart conditions has improved dramatically over recent years with the help of research funded by the BHF.

“I’d like to encourage people to think about their own heart and help raise funds for the charity to enable them to continue with their vital life saving work.”

Donna Stokes, BHF fundraising volunteer manager said: “Rob is trying really hard to change his life style and lose weight. He is inspirational and I wish him every success in reaching his goal. February is National Heart Month and an ideal time to start concentrating on looking after your heart.”

He is also taking part, with other gym members, in the Fitathlon which started on February 1 to coincide with National Heart Month to get members to cycle around Europe, a distance of 10,000 miles, on static bikes finishing on February 12 with the official re-launch of the newly refurbished gym.

Anyone can show their support during the month by organising a simple red themed fundraising event. Friday, February 24 is National Wear Red day so businesses, schools or colleges can encourage employees, pupils and students to participate.

All money raised will help the BHF save lives through funding pioneering heart research, patient care, campaigning for change and by providing vital heart health information. For more details, call Donna Stokes on 0121 353 2087.