Alan Sugar’s Apprentice gives Richard Branson a run for his money for Alzheimer’s Society
Published 21 April 2010
Apprentice winner, Yasmina Siadatan, Oasis drummer Alan White, television presenter Richard McCourt and jazz crooner Rick Guard, are all taking part in the London Marathon on 25 April to raise money
Apprentice winner, Yasmina Siadatan, Oasis drummer Alan White, television presenter Richard McCourt and jazz crooner Rick Guard, are all taking part in the London Marathon on 25 April to raise money for Alzheimer's Society. 
They may be a small team, but Yasmina says they are determined to raise as much money as possible to help care and support for the 750,000 people with dementia in the UK and their carers.
The restaurant owner and marathon runner, who has been working for Alan Sugar since her victory in the BBC competition last year, added,
Richard McCourt, half of mad-cap duo Dick and Dom, is also taking part in the Bupa Great Manchester Run on 16 May for Alzheimer's Society. He said,
'My aunt was only 55 when she was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. Dementia is not a natural part of aging, it is caused by diseases of the brain which rob people of their lives and can affect anyone. By supporting Alzheimer's Society, we can help people to live well with dementia today and fund research to find a cure for tomorrow'.
The rest of the team are from the world of music; former Oasis drummer, Alan White, and, the man dubbed 'the UK's answer to Michael Buble', Rick Guard who is running in honour of his mother who died with dementia.
'Caring for a family member with dementia, I know the important work Alzheimer's Society does to help and support people with dementia and their carers. The Society has been a lifeline in helping us through this difficult time. They rely on donations to continue their vital work, so I feel privileged to be running the Virgin London Marathon for them'
Just over six thousand runners crossed the finishing line of the first London Marathon in 1981; now around 35,000 people of all ages and abilities are expected to take part. New sponsors Virgin are aiming to help fundraisers raise over £¼ billion during its 5-year sponsorship.
Alzheimer's Society Director of Fundraising, Jo Swinhoe, said,'We are delighted to have such a fantastic team participating in this amazing event. One in three people over the age of 65 will die with dementia and we rely on voluntary donations to continue our vital work. We are grateful for everyone's support and hope people will cheer the team on to the finishing line on race day.'
