Rupert Bell steps out to fight dementia at Black Country Memory Walk

Rupert set walkers off to raise money for local Alzheimer's Society services. Over 450 people stepped out to take part in the event and more than £20,000 is estimated to have been raised to help local people with dementia and their carers.

Participants had a choice of three walk lengths, which led them on a tour of the animals throughout the Zoo and remains of the Castle. On return from the walk, they were entertained by Out of the Shadows, a local rock 'n' roll band, a Classic Cars display and performances from Time Step dance studios.

Rupert lost his mother to Alzheimer's and so raising funds to support people living with dementia is something close to his heart. He said:

'As a supporter of Alzheimer's Society I was really pleased to be asked to attend Memory Walk. The day was really wonderful. It was so encouraging to see the heart-felt commitment of everyone who took part, including people with dementia and their families.'

Rupert Bell (centre in suit) with Alzheimer's Society volunteers who helped to organise the Black Country Memory Walk

Leesa Clarke (42) took part in the shorter walk with her husband and two sons, aged five and two, for her mother Patricia Harpin (64), from Pedmore near Stourbridge who has early onset dementia. Leesa's father, Peter Harpin (65), also showed his support by performing to the crowds with his Rock n' Roll band, Out of the Shadows.

Leesa said:

'We have first hand experience through my mother of what effect dementia can have on a person and the family as a whole. The atmosphere today was really lovely and it's been a fun day for the family. It's nice to know that you are not alone and we felt comfortable being with others who understand.

'It was an added bonus that my sons were able to see their granddad perform for the first time in his band, Out of the Shadows. We completed the York Memory Walk last year, and raised over five hundred pounds, so we are hoping to equal or better that this time.'

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

Today, participants were encouraged to go the extra mile and take part in Bupa's 'Memory Mile' at the end of the walk to raise a further £5 to support people with dementia.

Lyn Chung, from Himley Mill Bupa Nursing Home, who attended the event, said:

'Our staff work closely with those living with dementia and their families, so we know how upsetting it can be. That's why we've been encouraging our staff, residents' friends and families to support the walk so we can raise awareness of dementia, and raise additional funds through the Bupa Memory Mile. It's great to see so many of them supporting the event today.'

Alzheimer's Society's Community Fundraiser, Emma Dowler said:

'Memory Walk went fantastically well and we are all really pleased. I am incredibly grateful to Dudley Zoo & Castle and my team of volunteers who have worked so hard to make the day possible. I would encourage everyone to sign up again next year so that we can raise even more money to support people with dementia and their carers.'

Those who missed out on the Black Country Memory Walk, can sign up to the Birmingham Memory Walk in Cannon Hill Park for free on 29 September by turning up before 11am and registering on the day. More info at memorywalk.org.uk