A STOKE survivor has set up a stroke club in Hartford to bring people together.

Bob Appleby - who suffered a stroke in 2017 – has introduced the club at Hartford Village Hall in Chester Road on Fridays from 1.30pm until 3.30pm.

It is called the Hartford Stroke and Aphasia Group – to include people who may have difficulty with their speech caused by things other than a stroke.

“We welcome stroke survivors, their carers, and volunteers,” Bob said.

“People can just turn up.

“The main thing is getting people talking.

“We also play games like dominoes and that is quite helpful because a lot of people who have had a stroke have trouble with numbers.

“It’s more about socialising – people can talk about anything they want.”

The group has also been trying out other activities, such as a fish and chips lunch – which Bob said went down very well with members.

He is also hoping of arranging coach trips in the future.

Bob added: “I’m quite pleased with how it’s been going and depending on how this goes, I’d like to look at opening another group in Weaverham.”

Bob recently completed a marathon walk on crutches in five-and-a-half days to give something back to the Stroke Association, a charity helping people rebuild their lives after a stroke.

He raised a total of £3,150, smashing his fundraising target.

Bob, who is a volunteer for the Stroke Association talking to and advising other stroke victims, said: “I wanted to repay the Stroke Association for all the help they have given me over the years and, despite my mobility problems, I was determined to show that with a little determination, anything can be achieved.”

According to the Stroke Association, the FAST test can help people recognise the most common signs of a stroke – which strikes every five minutes in the UK.

Facial weakness: Can they smile, or has their mouth or eye drooped?

Arm weakness: Can they raise both arms?

Speech problems: Can they speak clearly and understand you?

Time to call 999: If you see any of these signs, call 999 quickly.