Local MP, Justin Tomlinson, supported the British Heart Foundation (BHF) by hosting the charities first ever pop-up shop in the Palace of Westminster.
The North Swindon MP met shop staff and volunteers to hear how BHF shops raise vital funds for life-saving research. During the visit, Justin added his voice to the call for people to Ramp up the Red this February.
During February, the BHF are urging the public to Ramp up the Red by wearing something red, hosting a red-themed party, or baking some red-coloured treats.
Coronary heart disease is the UK’s single biggest killer, responsible for almost 74,000 deaths in the UK each year, an average of 200 people each day. There are currently 2.3 million people in the UK living with coronary heart disease.
Justin Tomlinson MP said: "I am delighted to help raise awareness of heart disease by taking part in Ramp up the Red and hosting the British Heart Foundation in Westminster. I hope the public join me and help to beat a devastating disease which can affect anyone, from babies to grandparents. By popping up in Parliament, the BHF has reminded us of the vital role their shops play in raising funds for life-saving research".
Mike Taylor, Retail Director at the BHF said "We wanted to show MPs just how important our shops are – without our shop staff, including 23,000 volunteers across the UK, we simply couldn’t continue our life-saving work. It is fantastic to see Justin showing his support and ramping up the red. All the money raised in February will help us truly fight for every heartbeat".
