Bond star Britt supports Alzheimer's Society at launch of Bupa Great Manchester Run

The former Bond girl is cheering people on to help Alzheimer's Society, Bupa's nominated charity for 2009, reach its £1 million target. 

Britt has personal experience of dementia through caring for her mother who had Alzheimer's disease and feels very passionately about raising funds to help others.

Today, Britt encouraged people in the Manchester area and beyond, to grab their running shoes and dress up in their favourite 60s, 70s or 80s accessories as part of Alzheimer's Society's 'Jog Your Memory' theme for the Bupa Great Runs. 
 
Britt Ekland, Alzheimer's Society Patron says,

'My mother was struck by dementia in her early 60s. Dementia is not a natural part of ageing; it is caused by diseases of the brain and robs people of their lives. My family and I cared for my mother through the 11 tortuous years she was ill. I felt totally helpless. Dementia is a cruel condition. That's why I've made it my duty to spread awareness and help others living with dementia and those who care for them.

'I have wonderful memories from the 60s and 70s with my mother. I think getting runners to dress up in outfits from this era to draw attention to Alzheimer's Society is a great idea. Not only will it Jog Your Memory, but it might also raise a smile and some valuable funds too!'

Britt was joined at the launch by television presenter, Richard McCourt, best known as 'Dick' from TV's 'Dick and Dom in Da Bungalow' and co-presenter of  'Are You Smarter than a 10 Year Old?'. Richard, who is now on TV in the comedy drama, 'The Legend of Dick and Dom', will be running the 10K race to help raise money for people with dementia.

Richard McCourt, Alzheimer's Society Ambassador says,

'Caring for a family member with dementia I know how the Society helps people affected by this devastating illness. Their support and information has been a lifeline in helping us through this difficult time. So grab your running shoes, raid your wardrobe and join me in jogging a few memories to raise awareness and funds for an extremely worthy cause."

Former GP and local resident, Joe McShane, also has first hand experience of caring for someone with dementia. Joe, whose wife has Alzheimer's disease and is now in long term care, explains why raising money for Alzheimer's Society is so important to him,

'As someone who has experienced the devastating impact of dementia first hand, I can't stress highly enough how important it is to raise money to support people today and find a cure for tomorrow. Alzheimer's Society has made a real difference to my situation and signing up to run, or sponsoring someone who is running, is a fantastic way to make sure this vital support continues.'

The Bupa Great Manchester Run is a 10K challenge taking place on Sunday 17 May and people can sign-up to run for Alzheimer's Society from today onwards.

To join Britt and Richard in their bid to raise valuable funds for the thousands of people living with dementia in the UK and the millions who care for them go to alzheimers.org.uk/greatrun or call 0870 417 0192.