Landmarks across the country are set to glow blue for World Parkinson’s Day next month

Scotland is set to light up blue for World Parkinson’s Day.

Next month, landmarks across Scotland will light up in blue to mark World Parkinson’s Day. From Kirkcudbright to Lerwick, over 50 venues will shine a light on 11 April to raise awareness of Parkinson’s.

Around 12,400 people in Scotland have Parkinson’s – about one in 375 adults. Despite it being the second most prevalent neurodegenerative condition after Alzheimer’s, public understanding of the impact of Parkinson’s remains low.

Annie Macleod, director of Parkinson’s UK Scotland, says: “The perception that Parkinson’s is an inevitable part of growing old and is just a bit of shakiness couldn’t be wider of the mark. Parkinson’s can be brutal and has more than 40 recognised symptoms. It affects people of all ages, and typically has a massive impact on every aspect of someone’s life.

“That’s why on World Parkinson’s Day - Thursday 11 April – we are launching our biggest ever awareness campaign to highlight just how serious the condition is. We’re delighted that so many places will be showing their support for the Parkinson’s community by lighting in blue for World Parkinson’s Day. Whether a national landmark or local church – we thank them all for their support. People with Parkinson’s and their families often feel isolated so it means a lot to the community to know that people care and are aware of the condition.”

The light up campaign has been led by volunteers who have secured support in communities across Scotland. Full details of venues taking part are available online.