HIV and sexual health charity, Terrence Higgins Trust (THT) is calling for people in Telford and Shropshire to get involved in World AIDS Day (December 1) this year, either by attending an event, making a donation to support local HIV services, or wearing a red ribbon to raise awareness.

World AIDS Day, which has been running every December since 1988, is dedicated to raising awareness of the condition. In the UK alone, around 80,000 people are living with HIV and over 7,500 are diagnosed every year.

The following events are taking place in Telford and Shropshire for World AIDS Day:

• Saturday 29 November – Community Displays, Telford and Wellington
  A life-size replica of Doctor Who’s Tardis will be landing in Telford town centre from 9.00am until 4.00pm, when THT staff and volunteers will be out in force to raise awareness of HIV and give out red ribbons. The Tardis has kindly been donated by its creator, Telford resident Jason Wardman, who will also be supporting the awareness drive. There will be a similar display (minus the Tardis) in Wellington town centre from 10.00am until 2.00pm.

• Saturday 29 November from 9pm–late – Charity Fundraiser, The Bull Hotel, Ludlow
  The Bull Hotel hosts a not to be missed evening of music and karaoke, with proceeds coming to THT.

• Monday 1 December from 7.30pm – 8.30pm - Candle Lit Vigil, Market Square, Shrewsbury
  THT will be holding a special candle-lit vigil to remember those that have died and to celebrate the lives of those with HIV today. The event is open to all, and will feature opportunities for attendees to step up and talk, and a one minute silence.

• Monday 1 December from 10.00am – 5.00pm – Day of Remembrance, St Laurence Church, Ludlow
  St Laurences Church will be open all day for people to light a candle in remembrance and celebration, with an hour-long vigil from 12.00pm – 1.00pm. THT will provide a display with information on HIV and how to prevent it. The day will conclude at 4.45pm with prayers of remembrance.

• Monday 1 December from 7pm – Fundraiser – The Three Furnaces, Bridgnorth Road, Madeley
  The Three Furnaces commence the run up to Christmas with a World Aids Day Red Party, with guests encouraged to wear something red.  The night will include unmissable entertainment from drag superstar La Quisha Jonz, a buffet, and charity  raffle, with proceeds coming to THT.

Jane Morel, from Terrence Higgins Trust in the West Midlands, said “HIV has been around for 25 years now and many people have lost partners, family or friends.  World AIDS Day is an opportunity for the community to remember those who have died and to celebrate the lives of those with HIV today.  Even if they can’t attend we hope that local people will get involved in some way, perhaps donating to the cause or just wearing a red ribbon to raise awareness.”

If you’d like further information on any of the World AIDS Day events going on in Shropshire, please contact Simon Ryder or Lotte Hakeman on 01952 221410

Ends

Notes to Editor

1. Terrence Higgins Trust is the UK’s leading HIV and sexual health charity with centres across England, Scotland and Wales. We're here to provide information and advice about HIV and sexual health and offer a range of services including sexual health checks, counselling and support groups.  We campaign for a world where people with HIV live healthy lives, free from prejudice and discrimination and we promote good sexual health as a right and reality for all. Terrence Higgins Trust relies on donations to deliver a wide range of services. To make a donation, visit www.tht.org.uk