Deputy Mayor launches Wiltshire Memory Walk Marathon

Councillor Larry, who launched the Memory Walk Marathon near Stonehenge, was accompanied by Veronica (67) and Christopher (67) Devas. Veronica cares for Christopher who has dementia and attends Alzheimer's Society services in Tisbury. Veronica took part in the Memory Walk Marathon in 2010.

Memory Walk is the charity's flagship fundraising event which sees walks taking place throughout September. This includes a 26 mile Memory Walk Marathon. In its third year, the event, which takes place on Sunday 16 September, will take walkers through over 6,000 years of British history. Participants will start at the World Heritage site of Stonehenge and finish at the Standing Stone Circles of Avebury.

The Deputy Mayor, whose mum had vascular dementia, said:

'I am delighted that Alzheimer's Society has asked me to help out with the launch of this fantastic event. The Society is a cause close to my heart as my mother died last year with vascular dementia so I have seen first hand how dementia can affect someone. I urge everyone to sign up and tell their friends and family about this challenging and rewarding event.'

Veronica Devas, 67, who is from Shaftesbury said:

'I took part in the Memory Walk Marathon in 2010 for my husband Christopher who has dementia. I had a really lovely day and I still have my medal to remind me of the fun I had. Dementia touches so many of us in one way or another. I would encourage everyone to sign up and help us support those with the condition.'

Adrian Williams, Community Fundraiser for Alzheimer's Society Wiltshire said:

'There are currently 6,500 people living with dementia in Wiltshire and this is set to rise to over 9,000 by 2021. The Memory Walk Marathon is an excellent opportunity for families and friends to get together and enjoy a day to remember whilst helping those with dementia.

'Anyone who enjoys walking and a bit of a challenge will love this event. We want this year's Memory Walk Marathon to be even more successful than last year, so put on your walking boot and sign up.'

Memory Walk 2012 is being held in partnership with Bupa Care Homes. Together, Alzheimer's Society and Bupa aim to support more people living with dementia through the vital funds that are raised.

The Memory Walk Marathon South will take place on Sunday 16 September at 7:00am and will start at Stonehenge. To register for the Memory Walk Marathon please visit alzheimers.org.uk/mwsouth  or call 0870 417 0192. There is a registration fee of £30.