THE family of a young man who died four years ago from an undetected heart defect hope free screenings in South Devon will help save more lives.

The free electrocardiogram tests are being held in Totnes in memory of Ollie Marsden (pictured), a seemingly healthy 21 year old, who collapsed and died during rugby training.

A post-mortem examination later revealed that Ollie, a trainee teacher from Paignton, died from an undetected heart defect, Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy.

Since his death, his parents Linda and Kevin Marsden have supported the work of the Cardiac Risk in Young charity to encourage young people to be screened for any heart defects.

The Marsdens say a simple and quick cardiac test could save the lives of 12 healthy young people who die each week in the UK from undiagnosed heart conditions.

On March 17, CRY will be holding the first ECG screening clinic in Totnes at Leatside Surgery where any fit and healthy young person can go and be tested.

Donations made in memory of Ollie Marsden will fund the appointments.

The charity CRY urges young people between the age of 14 and 35 years old to get screened particularly if they are engaged in sport.

Ollie's father Kevin said: "It is fitting that the screening will be held at Leatside Surgery, just a few hundred metres from where he was training with Totnes Rugby Club when he collapsed and died.

"So much money has been raised in his memory that we hope this will be the start of a regular screening programme locally."

Dr Steven Cox, CRY's director of screening, added: "The death of a young person is heartbreaking and devastating for any family.

"We would encourage all families to have their children screened for any underlying heart conditions.

"Less serious cardiac abnormalities will be identified in one per cent of people.

"Although not life-threatening, they can cause complications in later life if not identified and monitored.

"It is essential anyone with a condition knows about it.

"If they continue to participate in sport or take particular medication for example they could be putting their lives at risk.

"They may not show any symptoms or warning signs."

CRY's screening programme is overseen by Professor Sanjay Sharma, professor of inherited cardiovascular disease and sports cardiology at St George's Hospital London, and the London Marathon doctor.

To book an appointment at the screening or for more information, log on to www.c-r-y.org.uk/ecg.htm