A HUNTINGDON nursery has raised enough money to buy two portable blood pressure monitors so local children with heart defects can be checked at home.

Staff and parents at Just Learning in Hinchingbrooke Business Park raised more than �1000 for the equipment which will be used by nurses from Cambridgeshire Community Services NHS Trust.

The fundraising was inspired by three year-old Joseph Mackay, who attends the nursery. Joseph suffers from a serious heart defect, which means constant visits to the children’s unit at Hinchingbrooke Hospital also run by the trust.

The nursery hosted several fundraising events throughout the year including a special red day and a sponsored silence.

Chrissie Richardson, nursery manager at Just Learning, Huntingdon said: “We held these events to raise as much money as possible for the children’s community nurses on behalf of Joseph. We were delighted with the grand total of �1,052, which is enough to buy two small hand held) blood pressure machines. Everyone is very proud of Joseph. Despite his condition he is always smiling and is a joy to have around.” Emma Mackay, Joseph’s mum, said: “I have been overwhelmed by the support we have received from the nursery. Joseph absolutely loves attending the sessions. Joseph has to have regular check-ups and the mobile blood pressure machine will make a big difference.”

Karen Tabor, children’s community nurse, said: “We would like to thank the Just Learning nursery for their fund raising efforts, which will help us to purchase not one, but two portable blood pressure monitors. This will mean we can help lots more children like Joseph in the community.” Pictured from left to right are Taz Dunn, Joe’s key worker, James, Joe’s Dad, Ms Richardson and Ms Tobar.