Athlone bridge goes red for World Heart Day

Athlone's railway bridge has been lit up in red this week to mark World Heart Day, which is tomorrow (Thursday, September 29).

World Heart Day is a global event designed to raise awareness of how cardiovascular disease, including heart disease and stroke, is the world's leading cause of death, claiming 18.6 million lives each year.

The day also aims to promote actions people can take in order to prevent and control cardiovascular disease.

The charity Croí has been arranging for a number of public buildings and landmarks to turn their lights red this week to mark World Heart Day and to highlight the work Croí does across the West of Ireland to prevent heart disease and stroke.

Paul Cunnane of Croí was in touch with Athlone councillor Aengus O'Rourke, who helped liaise with Irish Rail in order to have the local landmark lit up in red from Monday of this week.

More information about World Heart Day can be found here, and more details about Croí can be found on its website here.