FREE beauty treatments will be on offer in Halesowen next week as part of an event to emphasise the importance of smear tests for women.

Dudley Council has teamed up with Halesowen College and Halesowen Business Improvement District (BID) for the event, which will take place at the BID office in the town centre centre from 10am to 3pm on Wednesday January 22.

College beauty students will be offering free treatments at the Hagley Street site.

There will also be public health professionals on hand to give advice about smear tests and answer questions.

The event is part of Cervical Cancer Prevention Week, which runs from Monday January 20 to Sunday January 26.

Smear tests help prevent cervical cancer and only take around five minutes.

Women can have a test at any time, except during their period.

Councillor Nicolas Barlow, cabinet member for health and adult social care, said: "This is a pilot project and an example of excellent partnership work between the three organisations.

"If you’re about to have your first test or have any questions about smear tests, I would encourage you to attend."

Tests can be booked at your local doctor’s surgery and are free and confidential.

For further information, go to www.lets-get.com

The BID office is at 1 Hagley Street, opposite Wilkos.