SHOPPERS at Merry Hill are being encouraged to take advantage of a free hearing check as part of a new awareness campaign.

Boots has teamed up with Action on Hearing Loss for The Great Big Hearing Check, to reach people who may have noticed changes in their hearing and detect problems as early as possible.

Karen Shepherd, audiologist at Boots, said: "For every person who experiences hearing loss there are many more who may not even know that there is more to hear than they think.

“We want everyone to get the most out of their hearing – whether that is something as practical as hearing the doorbell go or the microwave ping, or their enjoyment of a favourite piece of music."

Christine Muscroft, who manages the hearing charity’s community services in the area, added: “Hearing loss can affect each and every one of us, so it is never too early to start looking after your hearing.

"Are you already asking people to repeat themselves more than you used to, or struggling to hear in crowded places? If so, a simple hearing check could offer you peace of mind and advice on what you can do to best help your hearing.”

The charity's volunteers will be at Brierley Hill shopping centre store on Friday (August 29) to offer information and practical advice on how people can best manage their hearing loss.

The free hearing check takes just 15 minutes and can be booked by visiting www.bootshearingcare.com or calling 0333 9206469.