More than 2,000 people gathered at Aintree Racecourse on Sunday to take part in a sponsored walk to raise money for people with Alzheimer’s.
The memory walks take place across the country every autumn in support of charities who provide help and support for dementia or Alzheimer’s sufferers.
People of all ages could take part in either a 2k or 10k walk in the memory of a friend or family member suffering with the disease, with the hope of raising money for others.
Liz Tonge, 57, from Rufford, who was taking part in the walk, told JMU Journalism: “Friends told me about the walk and my mum suffers from it, so I’m doing it for her.
“I’m making a donation because I got injured so I wasn’t sure if I’d be able to do it. There are six of us doing it and we’ve raised about £300.”
Barbara Guy, 46, from the Wirral, who was walking in memory of her auntie, was hoping to raise awareness of the disease as well as money through the walk. She said: “When you have to ask for sponsors and sponsorship it brings it to their attention as well. Between three of us were looking at raising £200, fingers crossed.”
Entertainment was provided throughout the day, with DJs, live music and face painting. The event was also attended by Liverpool Lord Mayor Erica Kemp, who made a speech to the crowd before joining them in the walk.
She stated: “Like many of you, I’ve been touched by a relative and someone else I know who has had a diagnosis of dementia.
“As Lord Mayor, the Alzheimer’s Society is one of my chosen charities this year, and that’s why I am particularly pleased to be here today.”
JMU Journalism spoke to Alzheimers Society dementia support worker, Elaine O’Shea, who said: “I think the walks are helpful in raising awareness, and it’s about getting the diagnosis as early as possible because early diagnosis is important.
“This is my fourth walk and it’s getting bigger and bigger every year. The atmosphere is fantastic and it’s just good to see everybody having a good day and remembering a person with dementia.”