Comedian, actor and author, Hugh Dennis, was one of over a thousand intrepid hikers who completed an epic trek through London’s most iconic landmarks on Saturday (3 June), all to support Alzheimer’s Society’s crucial work.
With one in three people born in the UK today going on to develop dementia in their lifetime, Hugh strapped on his walking boots to walk 13 miles, to show support for the 900,00 people living with dementia in the UK and the many millions more carers, partners, families, and friends affected.
The trek is one of Alzheimer’s Society’s popular Trek26 events, which are a series of 13 and 26-mile treks in eight breath-taking locations across the UK, with the London event the first in the series. The London Trek took in landmarks including the Tower of London, St Paul’s Cathedral and the London Eye.
Prior to the Trek, Hugh discussed why he was taking part in support of Alzheimer’s Society:
“I became involved in supporting Alzheimer’s Society years ago following a plotline in Outnumbered. Dementia is a huge, and often undiscussed issue, which Alzheimer’s Society is tackling head on, supporting both those who live with dementia, and crucially those who care for them.
“I love mass events like Trek26 – there is something rather wonderful about sharing the day with all sorts of different people, with different stories and reasons for being there, but all of whom are united by one aim – to get to the finish and help to stop dementia in its tracks.”
After completing the Trek, Hugh said: “Whilst my feet are tired, there was a wonderful community spirit during the day, which spurred me, and everyone else, towards the finish line.
“I hope that by joining the other trekkers, I have made a small contribution in helping to provide help and hope to everyone affected by dementia, both now and in the future. I’d really encourage everyone to sign up for an event, whether a Trek26 or the shorter Memory Walks coming up in the autumn.”
Hannah Mayfield, Fundraising Manager at Alzheimer’s Society, added:
“We are incredibly grateful to Hugh, and all the trekkers for putting in the hours of training and preparation to complete their Trek26 challenge. Every participant has helped raise money and crucial awareness of dementia, so we can work towards a world where dementia no longer devastates lives.
“Every penny raised from events like Trek26 will really help us continue to be a vital source of support and a powerful force for change for everyone affected by dementia.”
Money raised from Alzheimer’s Society’s Trek26 events will go towards the charity’s vital services, which have been used more than 4.5 million times in the last year. Funds will also go towards providing hope for the future by campaigning to make dementia the priority it should be and funding groundbreaking research.
To support Alzheimer’s Society, take part in one of the charity’s Trek26 events, or one of the charity’s Memory Walks. Visit: alzheimers.org.uk/charity-walks
