Thousands turn park blue for Memory Walk

More than 5,500 people united against dementia at Clumber Park on Sunday.

Walkers of all ages, wearing bright blue T-shirts, joined in a Memory Walk through the grounds.

Among them was Kim Laughton, 39, of Newark, who took part with her mother, Margaret, 74, who cut the ribbon to set everyone on their way.

Accompanied by friends and Labrador Elford, they walked in support of friends and a family member who lived with dementia.

Margaret said: “The last time a cut a ribbon I was seven years old. My dad was a lock keeper and the ceremony celebrated the opening of a new lock – it’s a privilege to do an encore years later for Memory Walk.”

Kim said: “Seeing so many people united against dementia, helping the Alzheimer’s Society to raise money for research is humbling and amazing.”

Scott Smith, Alzheimer’s Society operations manager, said: “The number of walkers helping us to raise money reflects the reality that dementia is now the UK’s biggest killer, with someone developing it every three minutes.

“Dementia devastates lives. It slowly strips people of their memories, relationships and identities. People are uniting against dementia to fight for a better future.

“Every pound raised will help Alzheimer’s Society provide information and support, improve care and create lasting change for people affected by dementia.

“We are committed to spending at least £150m over the next decade on research to improve life today and find a cure for tomorrow.

“I would like to say a huge thank you to our magnificent walkers for their support.”

Anyone who missed out can organise a walk, Your Walk, Your Way. For more information go to memorywalk.org.uk