A bowls player who had open heart surgery has presented around £2,400 to a Woolwich hospital’s cardiology department.

Sylvia Phipps donated the money on behalf of Zipper Bowling Association - bowling clubs for people who have experienced open heart surgery - to Queen Elizabeth Hospital.

The cash will buy two new blood pressure monitors for the department which gained two heart monitors from ‘Zippers’ members last year.

Mrs Phipps underwent open heart surgery 14 years ago and has received care at the hospital alongside her husband Bob.

QEH chief cardiac physiologist Trudy Belcher said: “Enjoying a healthy activity like bowls is a great way to re-build strength and confidence after experiencing the trauma of major surgery.

“We are so grateful to Sylvia and the Zipper Club for making their own recovery help so many others. “We are now able to monitor the heart and blood pressure rates of almost twice the number of patients we used to, which means we can offer faster diagnosis and treatment for many.

“Thank you for choosing our department to receive your help again."

Zippers members form teams to play charity matches around the country and donate the funds to causes chosen by players.