Cardiff Half Marathon runners achieve best ever total for Alzheimer's Society

With more runners taking part for Alzheimer's Society than ever before and last year's sponsorship total of £15,000 already bettered, the money and awareness the brave athletes raised will make a significant contribution to Alzheimer's Society's efforts to support people with dementia and their carers throughout the country.

Participants were encouraged on their way at the half-way point by Alzheimer's Society staff, volunteers and family members, as well as being given a much-needed drink and refreshments at the finish line once they had completed the second half of the course.

Runner Natalie Holmes was running to raise awareness and money in memory of her grandmother. Having a relative who had lived with the condition spurred her on during the race:

'Two weeks before the race, my grandmother, who had dementia, (which was why I was running for Alzheimer's Society) sadly passed away. While I was running it was a great focus for me.'

Running a marathon for charity is a great way to keep fit and have fun, as well as an effective way of raising money for a good cause.

Cardiff Student Emily Brent (pictured) recommended that people consider running for Alzheimer's Society in future:

'My nan was diagnosed with dementia 6 years ago and I decided that I wanted to raise money for Alzheimer's Society. I wanted to take part in something that would be a challenge, as the furthest that I had ever ran before was 5K. I really enjoyed running the half marathon and I'm pleased with the amount I raised. I'm thankful for the support of Alzheimer's Society, particularly on the way round and for the water and chocolate afterwards!'

Alzheimer's Society fundraising manager Rhodri Davies thanked participants for their hard work:

'I'd like to congratulate all of the runners for their phenomenal efforts. We really appreciate the hours they put into training for the run and gaining sponsorship for the Society. In addition to fundraising, taking part in half marathons helps to raise awareness of dementia and the work of the Society. We hope that people will be inspired by the amazing efforts of this year's half marathon runners to consider taking part in future running events for Alzheimer's Society.'

For more information about taking part in running events for Alzheimer's Society, go to our running events page, or contact the Wales fundraising team on 02920 480 593 or at Aimee.Hopkins@alzheimers.org.uk