ARROWE Park Hospital is among the region's top-performing health trusts for its treatment of stroke patients.

Each year, around 700 people are admitted to its stroke unit within four hours, better than the national average.

Its work is highlighted as part of stroke awareness month, which has the theme Make May Purple.

Dr Ruth Davies, clinical service lead for stroke, said: "We are very proud of the service we offer to patients who have suffered a stroke.

"Throughout May we will be raising awareness among the visitors, patients and staff around how to detect and prevent this condition.

"A stroke can be an extremely disabling event not only for the individual but also for their family and friends.

"We want to raise awareness that stroke can not only be prevented, but stroke survivors can fully recover and regain their quality of life with the appropriate long-term care and support."

Wirral stroke patients have access to a well-developed stroke service at Arrowe Park Hospital, an award-winning stroke rehabilitation unit at Clatterbridge Hospital and a specialist early supported discharge service.

Wirral Stroke Service offers a 24/7 consultant-delivered service and by providing specialist treatment to unblock blood clots within four and a half hours. 

The team also works in close partnership with the Stroke Association providing support to patients and carers. 

Stroke is responsible for more than five million deaths worldwide every year. However, many strokes could be prevented by making simple lifestyle changes, such as eating healthy, exercising regularly and by stopping smoking or drinking too much alcohol.

For more information about the Make May Purple month visit www.stroke.org.uk