Iconic buildings across Wales, including Barry Clock Tower and Torfaen County Civic Centre, will light up blue on Saturday, October 12.

This is to mark World Arthritis Day, an initiative led by the charity Versus Arthritis.

The aim is to raise awareness about the often-overlooked and misunderstood condition.

Versus Arthritis estimates that 974,000 people in Wales are living with musculoskeletal conditions, including arthritis.

However, the charity believes that many more remain undiagnosed and unsupported.

They hope that the illuminated buildings will inspire those with arthritis to share their experiences and realise they are not alone.

Mary Cowern, head of Wales at Versus Arthritis, said: "It's vitally important that charities, governments, and the NHS work together to make sure arthritis is taken seriously and ensure people have timely access to the right support and care they need to live healthy and happy lives.

"We hope the lighting up of buildings around Wales for World Arthritis Day will help people living with arthritis to remember that they are not alone with their condition."

The charity is also using World Arthritis Day to campaign for better recognition and support for those living with the condition.

They are encouraging people to share their stories on social media and tag Versus Arthritis to help raise awareness.

The day follows the National Arthritis and Musculoskeletal (MSK) Conference, which took place at Swansea.com Stadium on Tuesday, October 8.

The event launched NHS Wales' new National Strategic Clinical Network for Musculoskeletal Conditions and a new MSK Framework strategy.

These initiatives aim to improve arthritis healthcare in Wales.

Angela Dullaghan, 62, shared her experience of living with osteoarthritis.

She said: "I've probably had osteoarthritis 12 or 13 years and I’m on the waiting list for knee replacements in both knees.

"I kind of lost my confidence going out and about.

"I used to think nothing of jumping on the bus.

"I can’t do that anymore because I haven’t been able to manage."

Versus Arthritis believes that Ms Dullaghan's story highlights the significant impact arthritis can have on quality of life.

As well as raising awareness and investing in research, the charity offers practical support through a range of services.

These include information about the conditions, self-management advice, exercise programmes, online communities, and ways to get involved.

For more information about the support provided by the charity, visit their website.

The full list of buildings that will be lit up in Wales includes Cardiff Castle, University Hospital of Wales, Carmarthenshire County Hall, Llyfrgell Ceredigion Library, The Bandstand Aberystwyth, National Library of Wales, Torfaen Civic Centre, Barry Clock Tower, Barry Tunnels, Barry Island Shelters, and Rhyl Sky Tower, pavilions, and promenade shelters.