VISITORS to Dawyck Botanic Garden are encouraged to look out for a display of tubs with purple bedding plants. They are there to mark the Stroke Association’s ‘Make May Purple’.

The charity’s annual month in May is all about encouraging communities to get involved in doing something purple to raise awareness of Scotland’s 4th biggest killer.

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. It is the leading cause of severe adult disability in the UK. In Scotland around 15,000 people have a stroke every year and over 121,000 people live with the effects of stroke.

Andrea Cail, Director Scotland of the Stroke Association said: “Stroke happens in an instant and changes people’s lives forever. A quarter of all strokes happen to young people. About half of everyone who has had a stroke will be left with a disability.

“The Stroke Association wants to prevent strokes and help those who have had strokes get the support they need. Those who support ‘Make May Purple’ by doing something purple to raise awareness of stroke are making a difference. We are delighted Dawyck Botanic Garden are showing their support throughout the month and want people who see these plants to be motivated do something purple to help us raise awareness and conquer stroke.”

Graham Stewart, Curator of Dawyck Botanic Garden said: “Dawyck Botanic Garden is very pleased to be involved in the ‘Make May Purple’ initiative to help raise awareness of stroke and its life-changing effects. By showing our support, collectively we can make a difference.”

For more information go to: www.stroke.org.uk/makemaypurple