Medical staff, heart patients and fundraisers gathered at Bradford Royal Infirmary to celebrate the presentation of a piece of equipment which will save lives in the city.

The £125,000 3D echocardiograph machine was bought by the Bradford community to help heart patients. Cardiology experts gave a demonstration of its abilities.

Echocardiographs look at the structure of the patient’s heart. A probe is placed on the chest and a pulse of high frequency sound is passed through the skin.

The echoes of the pulse reflected back show as a picture on a screen to provide detailed information about the heart.

The district has high levels of heart disease and every year about 5,000 heart scans are carried out at BRI. Previously these were all done in 2D but with the arrival of the 3D machine and its superior images doctors will be able to make more informed and speedier diagnoses.

The money to buy the machine was raised when the Telegraph & Argus teamed up with the British Heart Foundation for the Beating Hearts in Bradford campaign.

The BHF started the appeal in December, 2008, to raise money to buy cutting-edge diagnostic equipment for BRI’s cardiology department after heart specialists said it was vital for local patients to have the use of a 3D echocardiograph machine. Those who backed the campaign included local heart patients who told their stories to inspire others, families who raised money in memory of loved ones, schools, businesses, voluntary and charitable organisations, rotary clubs, Bradford Heart Support Group and sports clubs, including Bradford Bulls.

Other money was given through donations and legacies, including a £20,000 contribution from Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.