LORD Cobham and District Councillor Janice Boswell joined forces with the Stroke Association and local stroke survivors last week to help raise awareness through singing.

They visited the Stroke Association’s Singing Group, run by Kidderminster local resident Pat Simmonds, on Thursday October 9 to show their support for the global pledge.

Lord Cobham said: “A stroke can have a huge impact on someone’s life. I know this too well after a close friend of mine had a stroke not too long ago.

“To see the community come together and support this pledge was truly powerful. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed today and I think everyone was very decent to put up with my singing, which isn’t the best on earth!”

Cllr Boswell said: “I’ve joined the choir every month because after my first visit, I couldn’t resist taking part again and again.

“After today’s performance, I think we’re well on our way to our first album, or perhaps a number one in the charts.”

The charity is supporting the International Communication Project 2014, which aims to highlight the importance of human communication.

By signing up to the project’s online pledge, people can show their support to the millions of people around the world who have communication disorders, such as aphasia, which affects a third of all stroke survivors.

Bernice Jones, Deputy Head of Operations for the West Midland Life After Stroke Services, said: “Aphasia has a massive impact on stroke survivors’ lives. The communication disorder can limit people’s ability to participate fully in family life, their community, education and work.

“Some members of the singing group have aphasia and they have found that singing helps give them a voice again.”

Rita Upton, of Redditch, joined the Singing Group after having a stroke. Rita said: “The singing workshops have helped me meet other people in the same situation. It has given me a weekly outing to look forward to and we’re now like old friends.

“It’s important other people with communication disorders are given the same opportunity to be part of their community. By signing up to the ICP pledge we can help support others with aphasia.”

For more information about the International Communication Project 2014 visit http://www.communication2014.com/.