Alzheimer's Society supporter Sir Terry Pratchett recognised as a Champion of Alzheimer's disease

The award, presented at the Medical Journalists' Association (MJA) Summer Awards, acknowledges Sir Terry's tireless campaigning and awareness-raising of dementia-related issues.

Sir Terry, who has a rare form of dementia called Posterior Cortical Atrophy (PCA), said of his award:

'I am, of course, very pleased to have won this award but must point out that all I had to do, some years ago, was find out that I had this wretched disease. It took no courage to freely talk about it in public, indeed, it would have taken more courage to do nothing.'

In addition to Sir Terry's award, Alzheimer's Society's national media team beat off strong competition to be presented with the 'Health Charity of the Year' award.

Alzheimer's Society's Chief Executive, Jeremy Hughes, said:

'These two awards are a testament to the hard work of everyone involved. They demonstrate just how far we have come in terms of public awareness of dementia. There are 750,000 people with dementia in the UK, and it is a condition that is likely to affect all of us in some way. We now need to ensure the spotlight is kept on dementia-related issues.'

-Ends-

Notes to editors:

• 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 ten 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