Free health checks and advice sessions for men are being offered at several locations across the Newry, Mourne and Down district this month as part of Men's Health Week.

The council's District Electoral Area forums, with support from the health improvement team and community agencies, have organized six events aimed at encouraging men to look after their wellbeing and seek early detection of potential health issues.

On 10 June at 11am, an event at Newry Leisure Centre will provide free health checks and guidance on healthy eating and staying well. The following day, on 11 June at 6pm, Castlewellan Castle will host talks on drugs and alcohol, cancer awareness, physical activity and nutrition. That event is open to men of all ages and is run in partnership with the County Down Rural Community Network.

A workplace-focused session is scheduled for 13 June at Creative Construction on Ballynoe Road, offering free health checks for male employees over 40. The Fishermen's Mission in Kilkeel will host free checks and information on 16 June from 10am, while Delamont Country Park will hold health checks alongside a willow-making workshop on 18 June at 10.30am. Ballynahinch, Killyleagh and Saintfield Men's Sheds are expected to attend the Delamont event, which also includes walks and exercise classes.

The series concludes on 19 June at 6pm at the Newry Street Unite community centre in Kilkeel.

Council Chairperson Cllr Glyn Hanna said the free checks provide a simple and quick health assessment and could detect problems early, potentially saving lives. He urged men to make their health a priority and praised the DEA forums for their work during Men's Health Week.