World Parkinson’s Day: Landmarks including Forres’ Tolbooth to ‘go blue’, as Moray marks occasion
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ON World Parkinson’s Day, crocheted post box toppers have sprung up in Elgin to celebrate a group’s 25-years of local aid.
And tonight at least eight Moray landmarks will be lit up blue, the colour of charity Parkinson’s UK, to show support.
Elsie Watson, chairperson of the Elgin and District Parkinson’s Support Group, said World Parkinson’s Day was all about raising awareness of the disease — which is “very much on the increase”.
The disease’s namesake James Parkinson was born 269 years ago today, on April 11, 1755.
Two members of Ms Watson’s group created three unique toppers, each a tribute to an activity delivered by the group to boost wellbeing.
The one-off crocheted creations mark the Elgin and District Parkinson’s Support Group’s dance, drumming and exercise classes.
And, until Friday, they will adorn post boxes inside Elgin’s Asda and Tesco, with the third outside Bishopmill Post Office on Morriston Road.
“The toppers were made by two ladies who are members of our group,” Ms Watson said.
“They are absolutely lovely, especially since each of them depicts something that we do.”
The group is also hosting an awareness event today at the Elgin Free Church of Scotland, on South Street, until 4pm.
“We are very aware that lots of people don’t know about Parkinson’s and this is a way to educate people,” Ms Watson added.
“And there are probably lots of people out there with Parkinson’s that don’t know about our support.
“Our group, for people with Parkinson’s and carers, has been running for more than 25 years.
“We meet very regularly, we host functions and we have speakers in.”
More people than ever are being diagnosed with Parkinson’s, according to Ms Watson.
She added: “It’s the fastest growing neurological condition in the world now.
“More than 13,000 people in Scotland suffer from Parkinson’s and 30 people are diagnosed every week.
“It is very much on the increase, but nobody knows why.
“People are living longer, but so many young people are being diagnosed too.
“My husband, for example, was only 30 when he developed Parkinson’s.”
Landmark buildings across Moray are also set to show their strong support for Parkinson’s awareness tonight.
Both the St Giles Kirk and the fountain, on The Plainstones, will be turning blue.
Also taking part are Anderson’s Care Home and the Elgin Ex-Servicemen’s Club.
The Tolbooth, in Forres, will join the number of Moray buildings going blue for Parkinson’s, as will Duffus and Spynie Kirks.
Key Lossiemouth sites are also set to participate, including the Covesea Lighthouse and the Stotfield Hotel.
