Nell McAndrew to lead team Alzheimer's Society in Bupa Great North Run

We are Bupa's nominated charity for this year's Bupa Great North Run, in Newcastle on 19 September.  Nell's grandad, Sam, was recently diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and she will be running in honour of him.

Experienced charity runner Nell, who has notched up several marathons and runs for good causes, says,

'I was so pleased to hear that Bupa has chosen Alzheimer's Society as their nominated charity for this year's Bupa Great North Run.  Our whole family have been devastated by grandad's diagnosis so I'm delighted to be able to give my support.  The money raised will improve the lives of people with dementia and their carers.  I hope runners of all levels will join me on the run and raise vital funds'.

This is the second year Alzheimer's Society have been the nominated charity for the Bupa Great Run Series.  Director of Fundraising, Jo Swinhoe, said,

'Thanks to Bupa, we were able to raise £1 million in 2009 to help fight dementia - this year we want to do even better and Nell's support is a fantastic boost.  She's an inspiration both as a runner and a tireless charity fundraiser and we're absolutely delighted to have her on board'. 

Dr Graham Stokes, Bupa's director of dementia care explains why Alzheimer's Society was a natural choice to be the nominated charity: 

'Alzheimer's Society and Bupa are working together across a range of projects to support people with dementia and their carers to find a cure for the future, whilst improving their quality of life and care. Both organisations share a commitment to fighting dementia and a belief in the health benefits of exercise.  Nell is a wonderful role model for aspiring runners and we're thrilled she's chosen to run for our nominated charity'.

To register to run the half marathon with Nell on the Bupa Great North Run visit alzheimers.org.uk/bupa