OLYMPIC swimmer and TV presenter Sharron Davies is encouraging people to sign up for Weymouth’s Step Out for Stroke walk.

The Stroke Association’s sponsored walk takes place at Lodmoor Country Park on Sunday, June 14 and stroke survivors, their families, friends and supporters in Weymouth are being encouraged to sign up.

Most Step out for Stroke walks are about a mile long and people can walk at their own pace and in their own time.

Sharron said: “Strokes have affected my family so I’ve seen first-hand just how devastating the consequences of one can be.

“Step out for Stroke celebrates the achievements of stroke survivors as they walk alongside their friends and family, all while helping to raise vital funds for the Stroke Association.

“Each walk is wheelchair accessible and suitable for any level of walking ability. Ultimately, Step out for Stroke celebrates the brave steps in a stroke survivor’s recovery.

“Please join me and sign up for a Step out for Stroke event. Your support will help the Stroke Association to be there every step of the way for those whose lives have been touched by a stroke.”

A stroke is a brain attack which happens when the blood supply to the brain is cut off, caused by a clot or bleeding in the brain.

The Stroke Association state that there are around 152,000 strokes in the UK every year and it is the leading cause of severe adult disability. There are more than 1.2 million people in the UK living with the effects of a stroke.

The association campaigns to improve stroke care, supports people to make the best recovery they can and funds research to develop new treatments and ways of preventing strokes.

Amy Binley from the Stroke Association said: “In 2014 we met some truly inspirational people who were taking their first steps since their stroke, and others who challenged themselves to walk as far as they could.

“Step out for Stroke is a fun walk that everyone can be part of, no matter what your age or fitness level.

“It’s the perfect event to take part in alongside friends and family.

“Every step makes a difference, and we want Step out for Stroke 2015 to be our biggest year yet.

“Join us in Weymouth to help even more stroke survivors take their first steps on the road to recovery.”

For more information on Step out for Stroke and to enter the Weymouth walk, visit www.stroke.org.uk/stepout

CONTACT ME:

t: 01305 830986

e: tara.cox@dorsetecho.co.uk

twitter: @DorsetEchoTara