TV presenter Gail Porter warming up to run Flora Light Challenge for Alzheimer's

More than 120 women will be raising money for the Society by running alongside Gail in the UK's biggest women-only race. The two Flora Light Challenges will both cover a 5km course and are suitable for women of all ages and ability. Gail will be taking part in the London based run in Hyde Park, whilst the second will follow a route through Birmingham city centre.

Gail says:

'I am thrilled to be able to give my support to the Alzheimer's Society and am looking forward to taking up another sporting challenge! Dementia affects more than 750,000 people in the UK. I hope by taking part in the Flora Light Challenge I can do my bit to raise awareness of this cruel disease and will wear my Alzheimer's Society T-shirt with pride. I urge as many women as possible to join me in this fun event which will be a great day out and the perfect way to get fit this summer.'

Stephanie Smith, director of fundraising at the Alzheimer's Society says:

'This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Society. Whilst much has been achieved in this time fundraising events such as the Flora Light Challenge will help us further our important work into dementia research and continue to support people with dementia and their carers.'

The Alzheimer's Society is offering prizes for its top fundraisers. They include one nights' accommodation and breakfast and dinner for two at Mallory Court Hotel in Warwickshire, and a voucher for two people to visit the Utopia Spa at Rowhill Grange in Wilmington, Dartford, Kent.

The Alzheimer's Society still has 20 guaranteed places for the Flora Light Challenge and is also urging women with their own places to run for the Society. For more information please contact 0870 417 0192 or email floralight@alzheimers.org.uk

Notes for editors:

• Photo of Gail Porter attached.
• The Alzheimer's Society is the UK's leading care and research charity for people with dementia and their carers and celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2004.
• The Alzheimer's Society was recently announced the Medical Journalists' Association Medical Charity of the Year for 2004.
• The Alzheimer's Society is the first organisation to win this award.
• Over 750,000 people in the UK have dementia. More than half have Alzheimer's disease.
• Dementia affects one in 20 people over the age of 65 and one in five over the age of 80.
• There are 18,500 people in the UK under the age of 65 with dementia.
• For information and advice on Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia call the Alzheimer's Society national helpline on 0845 300 0336.
• Our website address is: http://www.alzheimers.org.uk/

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