Walkers put best foot forward for Alzheimer's Society

Memory Walk takes place on Douglas prom

A recent 'Memory Walk' in aid of Alzhiemer's Society saw fifty fundraisers complete a five kilometre walk along Douglas Promenade.

Money raised from the event will help finance ongoing support for families living with dementia, as well as funding vital research.

The walk was launched by Tim Crookall MHK, who gave a short speech to the gathered walkers.

He touched on his own family's experiences with the disease.

According to figures from the charity, one in three people born today in the UK will go on to develop dementia in their lifetime.

Local fundraiser and Dementia Adviser, Claire Cubberley said: "We’re so very grateful to Onchan Rotary Club and the Royal Bank of Scotland for assisting with the running of the event and also to CuPlas Callow who provided water for the walkers.

"I think everyone was very motivated by Tim Crookall MHK who shared his personal story of dementia and sent us all on our way determined to raise as much money as possible!

"I’d also like to thank Alzheimer’s Society volunteer, Gemma Russell who helped register everyone and whose assistance was invaluable. She made sure that all our participants received a medal in recognition of their efforts."

Steve Green, Regional Manager for Alzheimer’s Society on the Island added: "We are in awe of our incredible fundraisers, who turned out despite dubious weather to support people living with dementia on the Isle of Man.

"With 900,000 people now living with dementia across the UK, 1,300 of those on the Isle of Man, and that number set to rise, there has never been a better time for people to get out there, fundraising and raising awareness of the condition.

"I think that everyone who took part in the Douglas Promenade walk made a big difference in the journey towards a future where dementia no longer devastates lives. I hope they all enjoyed their day and found it both moving and uplifting being in the company of so many other people with similar experiences. I would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who helped make the event such a brilliant success."