CAMPAIGNERS staged a Memory Walk in Southampton to focus attention on the curse of Alzheimer's.

The disease can cause a range of problems in the elderly, including loss of memory.

Southampton's mayor Parvin Damani cut the ribbon to start the walk, which was followed by a balloon launch at Hoglands Park.

The event was staged by the Southampton branch of the Alzheimer's Society, which raises funds to support people with dementia. A society spokesman said: "Memory is a gift that we all take for granted."