People in the South East are being urged to get a simple test to reduce the risk of a “silent killer”.

Today, the NHS is launching a new campaign to find the “missing millions” who have undiagnosed high blood pressure.

Sussex residents are being warned that there are often “no clues” about who might have high blood pressure - the only way to know is to have a simple test.

The NHS has announced an additional 2.5 million blood pressure checks in community pharmacies over this year and next and is urging those ages 40 and over to get a free blood pressure test at a participating pharmacy.

The procedure is quick, non-invasive and you don’t need to book in advance.

Sir Professor Chris Whitty, chief medical officer for England who went to school in Pulborough, said: “High blood pressure usually has no symptoms but can lead to serious health consequences such as a fatal heart attack, a stroke, kidney disease and vascular dementia.

"The only way to know if you have high blood pressure is to get a simple, non-invasive blood pressure test. Even if you are diagnosed, the good news is that it’s usually easily treatable. Getting your blood pressure checked at a local pharmacy is free, quick and you don’t even need an appointment, so please go for a check today – it could save your life.”