A former DJ who suffered a heart attack while walking the Lizard cliffs alone is now holding a music event to raise awareness and funds.

Kay Harvey, who lives near Mullion, was only in her 40s when she suffered an attack three years ago.

She was alone walking the cliff path at the time and initially thought she was having an asthma attack, but after driving herself home and then heading to hospital she was given the devastating news.

She told the Packet: “My heart attack came totally out of the blue; I considered myself to be in the best of health and very fit. I was slim, never smoked, ate healthily and took regular exercise including strenuous cliff walking several times a week.

“The pain - I can't explain it. It was just excruciating; coming out from every part of my body. Even then I still didn't think 'heart'.

“It wasn't until I was in the cardiac unit and they said, 'I'm sorry to say you've had a heart attack'. The next thing I was in Derriford and having a bypass. Unfortunately I still remain very poorly with it.”

She now wants to let people know that a heart attack can happen at any age, while also saying thank you to the cardiac unit at the Royal Cornwall Hospital and the British Heart Foundation for their support.

Kay is organising Heart:Beats Music Festival 2014, which is taking place at the Blue Anchor in Helston on Sunday, April 13 between 2pm and 11pm.

There will be two stages and 14 bands playing everything from rock to ska and even barbershop, with a £5 minimum donation for entry.

She has teamed up with friend of 20 years Graham Baumback, aka The Grumster, saying without his support “this event would not be taking place.”

Kay added: “I'm grateful to everyone - the support I've had is absolutely amazing. You really do find out who your friends are.”