SPECIALIST cardiac rehabilitation nurses from Airedale NHS Foundation Trust are helping patients build up their fitness and confidence.

Part of the service includes exercise classes held either in the hospital, at Keighley Health Centre or in Skipton.

Patients receive a clinical assessment, then an eight-week course of 16 sessions which includes circuit training, monitored by a range of staff including nurses and physiotherapists.

Among the people who have benefited is Ray Stubbs, who took extra care of his heart this Valentine's Day with help from Airedale's cardiac rehabilitation nurses.

Mr Stubbs lives with his wife Winifred. They have been married for 30 years and have seven children between them, 22 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.

Mr Stubbs was diagnosed with vascular dementia in 2015 and recently suffered a heart attack.

When his cardiac nurse Debbie Moses visited him at his Ilkley home, he was invited to join the rehabilitation programme.

Mrs Stubbs said: "Not only have I noticed a great improvement in his strength and physical fitness, but also in his whole wellbeing. He looked so happy taking part in the class.

"For myself, going to the class and talking to the nurses and physiotherapist has made me feel less anxious and worried that another attack is imminent."

Mr Stubbs said: "I enjoyed it, although I didn’t want to go at first. I wasn't sure what to expect. But when I went I was very happy, we were all friends and the staff were great."

Ms Moses said: “The aim of the cardiac rehabilitation exercise programme is ultimately to improve heart fitness. However, what we do find is many patients improve their wellbeing in general.

"Alongside the rest of our service, carers are included to help the patients take control of their own health and build in confidence with our support.

"Ray and Winifred are a shining example of how this works for our patients.”