Welsh rugby star Morgan Stoddart will be returning to the Millennium Stadium today to support survivors of stroke and their families for the annual ‘Step out for Stroke’ event.

The former Wales and Scarlets full-back is the special guest for the sponsored walk, which takes place around the pitch at the home of Welsh sport, to raise essential funds for the Stroke Association and increase awareness of stroke in Wales.

The annual fundraising event is hosted at the iconic venue as part of the Millennium Stadium Community Events initiative which offers the venue free of hire-charge for 15 Welsh community or charity organisations each year.

Millennium Stadium Manager Gerry Toms said: “The stadium’s Community Events scheme supports community groups and charities all over Wales and it’s great to welcome the Stroke Association back to the Stadium for another fantastic Step out for Stroke event.

“Our stadium managers appreciate the huge amount of work that goes into event management and it is a pleasure to support the Stroke Association and the fundraisers for such a worthy cause.

“I’m sure the sponsored walk, hosted by Welsh rugby’s Morgan Stoddart, will be a special day for all involved and I wish them all the best with their event.”

There are over 11,000 people across Wales who have a stroke each year and over 65,100 people living with the effects of stroke. For stroke survivors this challenge often marks their first steps since their stroke.

Seren Evans, Fundraiser for the Stroke Association, said: “Stroke happens in an instant, but its effects can last a lifetime. Far too many people don’t understand it or think it will happen to them. We believe everyone affected by stroke should get the support they need to make the best possible recovery.

“We’re inviting the whole community to come to this fun day out and help us make it an event to remember. It is a milestone for many stroke survivors taking part, and is an occasion the whole family will enjoy.”

The family event is open to everyone, regardless of age or ability, and organisers are offering people the opportunity to register today, between 10am and 12noon, at the Millennium Stadium.

Registration costs £7.50 and the walk takes place between 11am and 1.30pm – an ideal lunchtime activity for those working in the city-centre.

Walkers will also benefit from free blood pressure checks, massage therapies available from Cardiff and Vale College and performances from Ysgol Gymraeg Cwm Derwen School dawnsio gwerin folk dancing group.

Acting Headteacher, Kathryn Matthews, says; “We are delighted to be able to bring along our pupils to dance at the Stroke Association’s Step Out for Stroke event at the Millennium Stadium. Over 60 year one and two children are also very excited to be able to take part in the walk itself and are interested to see what lies behind the stadium gates as part of the guided tour!

“The school is very pleased to be supporting the Association in raising vital funds for stroke survivors and we hope the event will be a great success.”