Yeovil star Brett McGavin has his blood pressure checked at Huish Park. Picture: Somerset Council

Yeovil Town FC players back blood pressure campaign at Huish Park

Paul JonesNovember 20, 20250 Comment0

PLAYERS from Yeovil Town Football Club joined a match-day effort encouraging fans to have their blood pressure checked.

While performances on the pitch might raise blood pressure at Huish Park, away from the action, members of Somerset Council’s Public Health team and NHS Somerset were at the ground to give supporters, visitors and match-goers a free check over.

Dozens of fans took a moment to ‘Know Their Numbers’, alongside the Mayor of Yeovil, the club’s owner and several Yeovil Town players, who all stepped forward to get their blood pressure checked and highlight the importance of looking after your health.

“High blood pressure is often called the silent killer, as it rarely shows symptoms but significantly increases the risk of heart attack and stroke. A quick, simple test can be lifesaving,” an event spokesperson said.

Supporters were able to drop in before kick-off to learn more about their heart health, pick up resources and find out how to borrow a blood pressure monitor for free from any Somerset library or get checked at their GP or local pharmacy.

“We were also joined by colleagues from the Public Health SmokeFree Somerset team, who were on hand to promote the free stop-smoking support available across Somerset – helping people take the next step towards a healthier, smokefree future,” the spokesperson added.

Councillor Graham Oakes, lead member for public health at the council, said: “Football brings our community together – so it’s the perfect place to spark conversations about health.

“We were delighted to see fans, players and local leaders all taking part. Knowing your numbers is one of the simplest and most powerful things you can do for your long-term health. It’s also a great time to quit smoking and our team will always be there to help.”

The event was part of the wider Take the Pressure Off campaign, delivered by Public Health Somerset and NHS Somerset, encouraging people across the county to check their blood pressure regularly and stay well.

For more information, visit healthysomerset.co.uk/take-the-pressure-off.