Sarra Hoy’s bid to turn Edinburgh landmarks purple

CHRIS Hoy’s wife is calling on Edinburgh to turn its landmarks purple to mark World Prematurity Day – after her baby was born 11 weeks early.
Sir Chris Hoy and wife Sarra. Picture: Ian GeorgesonSir Chris Hoy and wife Sarra. Picture: Ian Georgeson
Sir Chris Hoy and wife Sarra. Picture: Ian Georgeson

Sarra Hoy has posted an appeal on her Twitter page asking for a symbolic wave of colour to support the campaign on November 17.

The day is marked in this way in several countries across the world – with the Empire State Building one famous building previously lit up in purple.

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The Balmoral Hotel and Edinburgh Airport are the first to agree to Mrs Hoy’s request, with the five-star hotel vowing they will turn their clock purple to raise awareness.

Sarra, whose son Callum turned one last month, said: “Having a baby prematurely is something that you just don’t plan for so it would be good to reach out and raise awareness of it in the city.

“I got the idea of turning Edinburgh purple from Bliss charity’s worldwide campaign to turn as many buildings as possible purple.

“This charity were really supportive of us when Callum came along, so I am supporting their campaign.”

Sarra said she is hoping both the Forth road and rail bridges, Edinburgh Castle, Jenners, and other landmarks, including the Kelpies, will help.

She said: “I am so excited that the Balmoral responded so quickly. It will be great to see Edinburgh lending its support, as it is something that’s really personal to us.”

Around 60,000 babies are born prematurely each year in the UK.

Sarra said it is important families experiencing this “difficult” time are remembered, and that the “amazing work” of doctors and nurses, is recognised.

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The Balmoral’s general manager, Franck Arnold, said: “I did not hesitate to say ‘yes’ to supporting such an important issue. It’s important to raise awareness for these little VIPs who need extra care and attention when they enter the world. We encourage everyone in the city to join us, in supporting this fantastic cause.”

Gordon Robertson, Edinburgh Airport’s communications director, said: “We’re pleased to confirm Edinburgh Airport’s tower – which is often purple – will glow especially purple.”