Alzheimer’s Society supporter begins Welsh leg of 5,000 mile coastline fundraising trek

Philip Williams, 44, is hoping to raise £100,000 by completing the epic journey around the English, Welsh and Scottish coastlines. He has taken on the challenge as a tribute to his mother Margaret, 84, who has Alzheimer's disease.

Having started his journey in Brighton, Phillip has already travelled 1,300 miles raising £27,000 in the process. He will cross the Severn Bridge on Thursday (25 November 2010) before continuing his trek around the edge of Wales.

Philip said:

'Since my mum was diagnosed with dementia seven years ago I have come to realise just how important Alzheimer's Society is. It has provided so much invaluable help and support to me, my mum and my whole family.'

'This walk is my way of giving something back. It is the first time I have done anything on this scale so it has certainly been a challenge so far. However, it has been an amazing experience and I have met some incredible people. I am really looking forward to exploring the coast of Wales. Anyone who wants to come and say hello or help me towards my £100,000 target is most welcome.'

Philip, from London, has passed through Portsmouth, Padstow and Falmouth among other places in the past 10 months. Along the way he has stopped in at a number of Alzheimer's Society services meeting many people with dementia and their carers.
Jo Swinhoe, Director of Fundraising and Marketing at Alzheimer's Society said:

'We are delighted Philip has given so much time and energy in his mission to raise such a huge amount of money for Alzheimer's Society. His walk will not only raise much needed funds but will also help raise awareness of the Society all over the country.'

'As a charity, we rely on the generosity of individuals like Philip to help people live well with dementia today and fund research to find a cure for tomorrow. One in three people over 65 will die with dementia. Please back Philip in his fundraising effort so we can continue leading the fight against dementia.'

To sponsor Philip visit justgiving.com/Characters-on-the-Coastline
To find out more about Philip and his journey, visit philipwilliams.uk.com or to find out how you can fundraise for Alzheimer's Society visit alzheimers.org.uk/fundraising

-Ends-

Notes to editors:

• Philip Williams will be reaching the Wales side of the M48 Severn Bridge at 1.30pm on Thursday 25 November 2010. If you are interested in interviewing or photographing Philip on the day please contact Lynsey Roberts on 0207 423 3595. He is also available for phone interviews
• 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 just 15 years 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 supports people to live well with dementia today and funds research to find a cure for tomorrow. We rely on voluntary donations to continue our vital work. 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