A CALL for people in Southampton to unite against dementia has been put into action.

This comes with hopes to encourage residents to join other supporters in the upcoming Alzheimer’s Society’s Southampton Memory Walk.

With 20,000 people in Hampshire living with dementia, the walk aims to raise vital money to fund research and provide support for the charity.

Dereck Spencer, from Chandlers Ford, is taking part in memory of his wife Jill, who passed away after living with dementia for five years.

He said: “Jill was diagnosed with dementia when she was 65 years old, back in 2008, but in 2013 we discovered she also had pancreatic cancer.

"Very sadly in May 2017 Jill passed away, she was my whole world for 57 years. I feel like I am giving something back to a group that has given Jill and I so much love, friendship and pleasure. My first memory walk was in Southampton in 2017, not long after Jill passed away. My granddaughter did it with me and it was so encouraging to think that we were not alone. Everyone affected by dementia in Southampton joins together, united against dementia.

Dereck added: “I strongly believe that with fundraising events like Memory Walk we can raise the money needed for vital research which can change the lives of the 850,000 people living with dementia, as well as their friends, families and carers too.”

Alzheimer’s Society Area Manager for Southampton Nick O’Donohue said: “We are calling on family, friends – and furry four-legged supporters – to unite against dementia this autumn. Dementia devastates lives. Walk with us at Memory Walk and dementia won’t win. Every pound raised will help Alzheimer’s Society provide information and support, improve care, fund research and create lasting change for people affected by dementia."

It runs on a 3.5km or 7km route through Southampton Common, and each person or team participating is asked to raise a target of £160.

Alzheimer's Society's Southampton Memory Walk takes place at Southampton Common on Sunday September 8 from 10am.

To register by Thursday September 5, visit memorywalk.org.uk.