Christopher Biggins and Miriam Margolyes lead call to ‘Give a Hand’ to the Stroke Association

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Christopher Biggins and Miriam Margolyes lead call to ‘Give a Hand’ to the Stroke Association

National treasure Christopher Biggins and Bafta-winning actress Miriam Margolyes are among a host of well-known names supporting the Stroke Association’s latest fundraising initiative: ‘Give a Hand.’

TV personality Mel Giedroyc, TV host Chris Tarrant, model Jools Oliver, presenter Sian Lloyd, Olympic cyclist Ed Clancy and rugby legend Michael Lynagh are joining them by challenging people to complete an activity with their ‘other’ hand to raise funds for people affected by stroke.

‘Give a Hand’ will see people across the UK take part in activities, such as ‘other hand’ bowling and cake decorating, using the hand they wouldn’t normally use from 26 October to 1 November 2015.

Christopher Biggins said: “Stroke is closer than most people think, and it can devastate lives. With the right support, many stroke survivors and their families are on the road to recovery. I know the Stroke Association provides this much-needed support, and that’s why I’m calling on everyone to get involved and ‘Give a Hand.’”

Mel Giedroyc said: “Every day stroke survivors have to re-learn to do the things they’ve always done, using their other hand. The Stroke Association provides hope, inspiration, advice and support to thousands of people affected by stroke and their loved ones. Come on everyone, let’s ‘Give a Hand’ to conquer stroke.”

Jim Swindells, Director of Fundraising at the Stroke Association, said: “Stroke changes peoples’ lives, often irreversibly, in an instant. By taking part in ‘Give a Hand’ and raising vital funds for the Stroke Association, the charity can support many more thousands of people throughout their recovery. Together, we can conquer stroke.”

To find out more about ‘Give a Hand,’ please visit www.stroke.org.uk/giveahand to download or request a fundraising pack.

For more information about stroke call the helpline on 0303 3033 100.

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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. There are around 152,000 strokes in the UK every year and it is the leading cause of severe adult disability. There are over 1.2 million people in the UK living with the effects of stroke.  

Stroke Association is a charity. We believe in life after stroke and together we can conquer stroke. We work directly with stroke survivors and their families and carers, with health and social care professionals and with scientists and researchers. We campaign to improve stroke care and support people to make the best recovery they can. We fund research to develop new treatments and ways of preventing stroke. The Stroke Helpline (0303 303 3100) provides information and support on stroke. More information can be found at www.stroke.org.uk

Contacts

Angela Macleod

Angela Macleod

Press contact Communications Officer Scotland press and Stroke Association research communications 0131 555 7244
Laura Thomas

Laura Thomas

Press contact Communications Officer Wales 07776508594
Ken Scott

Ken Scott

Press contact Press Officer North of England and Midlands 0115 778 8429
Daisy Dighton

Daisy Dighton

Press contact Press Officer London and East of England 02079401358
Martin Oxley

Martin Oxley

Press contact Press Officer South of England 07776 508 646
Vicki Hall

Vicki Hall

Press contact PR Manager Fundraising and local services 0161 742 7478
Scott Weddell

Scott Weddell

Press contact PR Manager Stroke policy, research and Northern Ireland 02075661528
Katie Padfield

Katie Padfield

Press contact Head of PR & Media This team is not responsible for booking marketing materials or advertising
Out of hours contact

Out of hours contact

Press contact Media queries 07799 436008
Kate Asselman

Kate Asselman

Press contact Artist Liaison Lead 07540 518022
Tell us your story

Tell us your story

Press contact 07799 436008

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The UK's leading stroke charity helping people to rebuild their lives after stroke

The Stroke Association. We believe in life after stroke. That’s why we campaign to improve stroke care and support people to make the best possible recovery. It’s why we fund research to develop new treatments and ways to prevent stroke. The Stroke Association is a charity. We rely on your support to change lives and prevent stroke. Together we can conquer stroke.

Stroke Association
240 City Road
EC1V 2PR London
UK