David Van Day launches 'Gift in Celebration' range with Alzheimer’s Society

Whatever the celebration - a birthday, wedding or anniversary, the new 'Gift in Celebration' range offers a way to make a difference on your big day. From collection boxes, wedding favours or donation cards for gift lists there is something for everyone.

Partying and celebrating his way into 2010 with Brides on a Bus and showing couples how it's done at his own wedding in February, David Van Day is fast becoming a wedding party expert.

David Van Day, who is due to appear on the popular Four Weddings series, says,

'My mum has dementia so this is a cause that is so close to my heart. Alzheimer's Society needs to raise money to help people live well with dementia today and for research to find a cure for tomorrow.'

'I've shared a bus with ten brides and I recently got married myself, so I know how much effort goes into creating the perfect day. Gift in Celebration is an inspirational way to make a difference while you celebrate.'

Newlyweds Caroline and Steve Hartridge asked their wedding guests to donate to Alzheimer's Society instead of buying gifts. To raise even more funds, they decided to forgo the typical exotic honeymoon and opted instead to participate in a Coast-to-Coast cycling challenge across Northern England.

Caroline said,

'My father Nick Jones has a rare form of dementia and Steve's nana Elsie Winkley had Alzheimer's disease; therefore Alzheimer's Society is an important charity to us. I was so proud when Dad unexpectedly stood up during our wedding to give a beautiful speech, despite his condition, which affects his speech and language.'

'We didn't need gifts, so we decided to ask for sponsorship donations instead for our bike ride fundraiser. Steve and I spent three days cycling through 150 miles of wind, rain and rough terrain. Anytime I felt like complaining, I remembered the courage it took my Dad to speak at our wedding. I know it was worth it as we raised a fantastic £7,500 for the Society, which will go towards helping people like my Dad. I really recommend using the 'Gift in celebration' collection for a special event.'  

Pictures available on request. For more information visit, alzheimers.org.uk/celebration To request any fundraising materials for your celebration, call 0845 306 0898 or email celebrate@alzheimers.org.uk

Notes to editors

• One in three people over 65 will die with dementia.
• Alzheimer's Society research shows that 700,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In less than 20 years nearly a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051.
• Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions of people who care for them. 
  
•  Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland
• Alzheimer's Society needs to raise money to help people live well with dementia today and for research to find a cure for tomorrow. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk 
  
• Alzheimer's Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0845 300 0336 or visit alzheimers.org.uk