The Scottish Parkinson’s International Table Tennis Open 2024 is once again being hosted at Inverclyde Sports Centre with a donation boost of over £3,000 from sponsors Optical Express.

Organised by the Scottish Parkinson’s Table Tennis Association in partnership with Table Tennis Scotland, the event will take place at the National Sports Training Centre in Largs from August 9-11, gathering up to 150 table tennis players with Parkinson’s from across the globe.

Research has shown that table tennis is uniquely beneficial for those with Parkinson's because it can improve balance, concentration, and hand-eye coordination, helping to maintain leg, arm and core strength while staying active as well as ease non-motor symptoms such as depression and anxiety.

David Moulsdale, Optical Express Chairman and CEO, said: “I’m extremely proud to be supporting the Scottish Parkinson’s Table Tennis Association, an incredible organisation working to improve the lives of people with Parkinson’s through the unique power of sport.

“Our sponsorship of the Association’s 2024 Open builds on the exemplary initiatives already undertaken by Optical Express and the Moulsdale Foundation to improve the lives of those who need it most.

"We are delighted to continue this work by supporting the Scottish Parkinson’s Table Tennis Association.”   

Linda Duddy, from the Scottish Parkinson’s Table Tennis Association, said: “It’s fantastic that David Moulsdale and Optical Express are sponsoring our second annual Open following the success of last year’s inaugural event.

"We are extremely grateful for David’s generous support, which will allow us to provide a greater experience for all participant’s taking part in this year’s action-packed tournament in Inverclyde from 9-11 August.

“Encouraging movement at various speeds over short distances, table tennis can help manage symptoms and has a positive impact both physically and mentally. On behalf of Scotland’s Parkinson’s community, we thank the Moulsdale Foundation for this vital contribution.”