Burnley folk urged to join a Memory Walk for Alzheimer's Society

The Alzheimer's Society is urging people to take part in a very different version of its most popular fund-raiser, which normally attracts thousands of participants.

With the coronavirus pandemic bringing large fund-raising events to a halt, the charity is seeking to replicate 2019’s success with hundreds of small walks.

TV personality Ruth Langsford, who each year joins thousands walking to beat dementia, it will be a much quieter affair for her and her rescue dog Maggie.

She said: “I’ve taken part in Memory Walks for the past nine years. I’ve walked with my mum, with Jack, with friends and for the last eight years with Maggie, my rescue dog.

“At every one I’ve witnessed first-hand how inspirational and uplifting it is to join together and walk for a world without dementia.”

The charity expects many of its supporters will arrange walks to coincide with World Alzheimer’s Day on September 21st. However, it stresses that walks can take place any time between now and October.

Hazel Bayley, Head of Region for Alzheimer’s Society, said: “More than half a million people have used Alzheimer’s Society’s support services since to start of the pandemic, with many calling them a lifeline.

“Our trained staff have taken thousands of calls to our Dementia Connect Support Line and as our face-to-face and group services remain suspended, we’ve reached out to those in need through welfare and companion calls, making more than 110,000 of these so far.

“Like many charities Alzheimer’s Society has been badly hit financially despite its services being in more need than ever before.

“This is why it has never been more important to raise money to help us reach and support more people through our vital services.”

This year’s Santander-sponsored Memory Walk is free to sign up, where people will find support to organise their own walk. People may choose to walk alone, with members of their household or another household - in line with latest government guidelines.

Sign up now at memorywalk.org.uk.