Powys residents are being asked to unite with thousands of people across the UK and Walk for Parkinson’s at Lake Vyrnwy on Sunday July 8.

The event will raise vital funds for the charity Parkinson’s UK, and is one of many walks taking place all over the UK throughout 2018.

Two people are diagnosed with the condition every hour in the UK and Walk for Parkinson’s events aim to raise over £500,000 for research to step closer to a cure.

Parkinson’s UK is the leading charity driving better care, treatments and quality of life for those with the condition. Its mission is to find a cure and improve life for everyone affected by Parkinson's through cutting edge research, information, support and campaigning.

There are longer and shorter distances to choose from, so whether you’re up for a challenging walk or a gentle stroll, there’s something for everyone. At Lake Vyrnwy distances include a two-mile or 12-mile walk around the nature reserve. Both routes start and finish at the Lake Vyrnwy Hotel and Spa.

Last year, 165 people took part in the walk at Lake Vyrnwy to raise £14,000 between them, and Parkinson’s UK hopes to raise even more this year.

Welsh TV broadcaster and Parkinson’s UK supporter Sian Lloyd is supporting the walks as her mum has Parkinson’s.

She said: “We want to make 2018 our biggest year yet for the Walk for Parkinson’s in Wales.

I’d like to invite everyone, whatever their age, ability and level of fitness, to unite to improve life for people affected by Parkinson’s.

“So please join us at Walk for Parkinson’s at Lake Vyrnwy. Every step takes us closer to a cure.”

The registration fee is £10 for adults and £5 for under 16s. Everyone who registers will receive a free Parkinson’s UK T-shirt, fundraising pack and at the end of the walk, a finisher’s medal.

As the charity is hoping to raise over £500,000 from the 37 events it suggests walkers aim to raise at least £50. All the money raised from the event will fund research to help to find a cure and improve the lives of the 7,700 people in Wales living with Parkinson’s.

Parkinson’s UK is also looking for volunteers to help register people at the start/finish area, or to be a walk marshal at various points on the route during the day.

To find out more, or to sign up to walk or volunteer at the event, visit: www.parkinsons.org.uk/walklakevyrnwy, call 020 7963 3912, or email fundraising@parkinsons.org.uk

For a full list of the 37 locations in the Walk for Parkinson’s series, visit: www.parkinsons.org.uk/walks