Five iconic Edinburgh landmarks will light up blue to mark World Parkinson's Day this weekend.
Edinburgh Castle, Camera Obscura, St Andrews House, The Edinburgh International Conference Centre and Victoria Quay will all have a different look on Sunday evening.
Charity Parkinson’s UK Scotland has revealed that landmarks across the whole country will light up blue to show their support and raise awareness of Parkinson’s – a progressive brain condition with over 40 recognised symptoms, and of which there is no cure.
The event is being organised by volunteer Karen McConnell who has been liaising with landmarks across the country in an effort to get as many on board as possible.
Karen said: “It’s absolutely fantastic to have the support of buildings lighting up blue for World Parkinson’s Day. It’s a really strong visual symbol of support for the Parkinson’s community and unites us all to mark the day. Having Edinburgh Castle join in for the first time this year is brilliant as it’s such a prominent landmark in Scotland.
“I hope lighting up Scotland for World Parkinson’s Day will help raise awareness of Parkinson’s and show the Parkinson’s community that we stand shoulder to shoulder with them and will continue to work to raise awareness until a cure is found.“
Annie Macleod, Director of Parkinson's UK Scotland added: “We are delighted to see so many iconic buildings light up for World Parkinson’s Day and are extremely grateful for their continuing support.
"This is an important symbol for just over 900 people in the City of Edinburgh who live with the condition.
“It has been an extremely difficult year for the Parkinson’s community. We know that many people with Parkinson's have experienced deteriorating symptoms over the last year. They have not been able to access the things that help keep them well - from care and treatment, to seeing family and friends and getting out of the house for exercise or other activities. Many families have faced bereavement with little support in these strange times.
“We hope this will be a beacon of hope for all who live with the condition.”
The West Lothian Civic Centre in Livingston and St Salvator's Chapel in St Andrews will also be lighting up blue, along with a host of other Scottish landmarks.
