Alan Sugar’s Apprentice gives Richard Branson a run for his 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,

'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'.

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,

'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 voluntary donations to continue their vital work, so I feel privileged to be running the Virgin London Marathon for them'.

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. 

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'.

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Notes to editors

For interviews or enquiries please contact

Alzheimer's Society                                                        

Jayne Phenton                                               
T. 020 7423 3595/0774 704 6750                                                                              
E. jayne.phenton@alzheimers.org.uk

Alzheimer's Society

• One in three people over 65 will die with dementia.
• Alzheimer's Society research shows that 750,000 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