OKEHAMPTON Excelsior Silver Band have been banging the drum to raise awareness of hearing health.

Musicians from the band visited Okehampton’s Specsavers to have their hearing tested by audiologist Mike Hobbs.

Mr Hobbs said: ‘Sounds above 85 decibels (dB) are harmful so even just listening to a personal music system with stock earphones at a maximum volume, which can generate sound levels of over 100 dB, may cause permanent damage after just 15 minutes listening per day. 

‘Your hearing is very important and having it checked as part of your regular health routine helps you to monitor your hearing health, which can change over time.

‘Regular checks are especially important for individuals who suffer from other associated health concerns, such as diabetes. At Specsavers we recommend that anyone over the age of 55 has their hearing checked once a year.’

Store director Karen Reader said: ‘The Okehampton Excelsior Silver Band is a great local enterprise and we are proud to support them. We’re pleased that they are helping us raise awareness of hearing health.’