Hundreds turn out to raise cash for local dementia services

Published: Monday, 23rd May 2022

‘Run, walk or push against dementia’ returned to Knole Park for the first time since the pandemic began with 300 participants raising thousands of pounds for local dementia services.

Residents from all over the District and beyond turned out in full force on Sunday 22 May 2022 to take on one of the timed 3, 5 or 10k courses, helped by perfect weather conditions.

Sevenoaks District Council worked in partnership with the Sevenoaks Area Dementia Friendly Community to organise the event, as the spirit of the day was fully embraced with residents running the course alongside their families, with their dogs and even pushing youngsters along in pushchairs.

The event will have once again raised thousands of pounds for the Sevenoaks Area Dementia Friendly Community.

Sevenoaks District Council Chairman, Cllr Avril Hunter, who was on hand at the finish line to give out the medals, says: “I was overwhelmed by the incredible turnout seeing so many people getting involved and doing their bit for such an important cause.

“Sadly, dementia is likely to affect all of us in one way or another, but the money raised by this event will help people living with the condition and their carers. Everyone who took part should be very proud of what they achieved this weekend.”

Elaine Murray, who co-chairs the Sevenoaks Area Dementia Friendly Community, added: “I want to thanks all of our volunteers, the Council and the hundreds of participants who made this amazing and joyful event happen.

“All of the money raised goes to local projects such as Forget-Me-Not cafés and a singing group. Those who took part had a great day and best of all, they have raised funds to support people living with memory issues.”

Residents can still donate to the Sevenoaks Area Dementia Friendly Community at www.sevenoaks.gov.uk/runwalkpush.