FORMER Evesham Rowing Club member and Olympic gold-medal winner, Zac Purchase, is giving his backing to a campaign aimed at increasing stroke awareness.

Zac, along with fellow Olympian rower, Peter Reed,have added their voices to the third annual Stroke for Stroke initiative launched by The Stroke Association.

The campaign runs until January 31 and challenges members of the public to row 10km, or more, during the week while helping to raise vital funds.

The campaign is designed to show that anybody, irrespective of age, can suffer from a stroke and that a healthy lifestyle, including a healthy diet and regular exercise can help to significantly reduce the risks.

Zac, from Tewkesbury, said: “Regular exercise is a key factor in staying healthy and reducing the risk of stroke, and rowing is an ideal, all-round, low-impact workout.

“It’s great to be involved in the Stroke for Stroke campaign and we hope to help raise plenty of money and awareness.”

The campaign, a joint initiative by The Stroke Association and Siemens, is now in its third year and has raised more than £70,000 to date.

Dr Ian Bye, GP clinical lead for stroke services at NHS Gloucestershire, said: “There are many risk factors for stroke, several of which can be changed.

“Awareness of these factors can have a significant impact on anyone who is at risk, potentially preventing death or disability.

“Exercise is a key factor within an individual’s control which can be can be changed to reduce the risk.”

For more information visit strokeforstroke.co.uk