DENTISTS and other medical professionals will give free healthcare to fishermen and their families at Poole Quay next week.

The treatment will be offered through SeaFit, which has commissioned charity Dentaid to provide support to fishing families.

This year, representatives from Macmillan Cancer Support and the Alzheimer’s Society will also attend the event, which will take place at the quayside on Tuesday, July 9.

Nick O’Neill, fishermen’s mission superintendent for the south coast, said dentists will provide free dental checks and emergency treatment from a mobile dental unit at the landing area at Poole Quay.

The Dentaid unit will be open all day from 10am to 4pm.

It will offer a wide range of treatment from check-ups and emergency fillings to oral hygiene and extractions.

Mr O’Neill said: “We know how hard it can be to get to the dentist when you’re out at sea.

“So we’re making it easy by bringing the dentist down to the quayside – it couldn’t be more convenient.

“Now there’s no excuse for ignoring that nagging toothache or putting off that dental check.

“And there’s no need to book – just turn up.”

Macmillan specialists will answer any questions on cancer during the day.

They will also offer advice on symptoms to look out for, managing the effects of treatment and finding the right support for carers.

In addition, representatives from the Alzheimer’s Society will be on hand to provide information to those with questions.

SeaFit is a joint initiative between maritime charities the Fishermen’s Mission and Seafarers Hospital Society (SHS).

Lysanne Wilson, SHS health development manager, said: “We have been able to deliver free dental checks and initial treatment to fishermen in several locations, from Cornwall and Devon to Troon in the south west of Scotland. Now we’re returning to Poole and, based on last year’s results, we know there’s a need.”

For more information, call 07827 965243.