Local MP Marcus Jonessupported the British Heart Foundation (BHF) on recently when the BHF revealed their first ever pop-up shop in the Palace of Westminster.

The Nuneaton MP met shop staff and volunteers to hear how BHF shops raise vital funds for life-saving research. During the visit, Marcus added his voice to the call for people to Ramp up the Red this February.

On the 7 February, the BHF were urging the public to Ramp up the Red by wearing something red, hosting a red-themed party, or baking some red-coloured treats. After their trip to the pop-up shop, Marcus was inspired to join in too.

Commenting, Marcus said: “I am delighted to help raise awareness of heart disease by taking part in Ramp up the Red. It is vital that we all play a role to help beat this devastating disease which can affect anyone, from babies to grandparents.

“By popping up in Parliament, the BHF has reminded us of the vital role their shops play in raising funds for life-saving research.”

Coronary heart disease is the UK’s single biggest killer, responsible for almost 74,000 deaths in the UK each year, an average of 200 people each day. There are currently 2.3 million people in the UK living with coronary heart disease. 

Mike Taylor, Retail Director at the BHF, said “We wanted to show MPs just how important our shops are – without our shop staff, including 23,000 volunteers across the UK, we simply couldn’t continue our life-saving work.

“It is fantastic to see Marcus showing his support and ramping up the red. All the money raised on 7 February will help us truly fight for every heartbeat.”

For more information about Ramp up the Red or to donate please visit bhf.org.uk/red.