THOUSANDS of people banded together to raise awareness against dementia.

Southampton Memory Walk returned for the second year running with more than 1,400 residents walking around Southampton Common on Sunday.

The event aimed to raise money for the Alzheimer's Society.

Saints legend Lawrie McMenemy MBE and Southampton Itchen MP Royston Smith cut the ribbon and set the walkers off.

Talking to the crowd Mr McMenemy said: "The weather has been kind and you deserve it because you have been kind as well. It was lovely to see you all."

He then added: "It's my pleasure to be here. Dementia is a killer and funding is not sufficient and we need to help."

All money raised will go towards funds for research and services to support individuals and families effected by dementia.

Organisers said they hope to run the event in Southampton once again next year.

Alzheimer’s Society has pledged to invest £150 million in the next decade in the search for better treatments and work towards a cure.

In total, there are 2,513 people in Southampton living with dementia, and 2,470 people took part in last year's event raising more than £140,000.