HUNDREDS of people united against dementia for the Alzheimer’s Society’s Bournemouth Memory Walk at the weekend.

Poole Zumba instructors Charlotte and Triff Rowe, whose mum and dad have dementia, joined a tide of people at Bournemouth Pier on Saturday to cut the ribbon and signal the start of the charity walk.

Charlotte said: “Our dad was recently diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease after going through prostate cancer as well. Dad is a really intelligent man and he says now there’s just an empty space. It is horrible to see him go that way.

“Our mum has dementia and we’re dealing with the first stages of it. She worked in a care home for years and knows what’s ahead so she’s trying to prepare as much as she can. It’s hard. She forgets things a lot.

“We really enjoy Memory Walk, it’s great fun and it puts everyone in a good mood. Of course it’s about something sad but everyone unites, we’re together in our pain and there’s strength in numbers.

“It’s emotional seeing everyone here walking for their loved ones, with names and photos on the back of t-shirts. It’s a great event for everyone struggling with it,” said Triff.

Derek Dodd, Alzheimer’s Society Area Manager for Bournemouth, said: “Dementia is now the UK’s biggest killer with someone developing it every three minutes - yet dementia research still trails far behind other health conditions, after decades of underfunding.

“I am so glad that thousands of people from across Dorset united against dementia to improve the lives of people living with the condition.

“Dementia devastates lives; it slowly strips people of their memories, relationships and identities.

“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.

“Alzheimer’s Society is committed to spending at least £150 million over the next decade on dementia research to improve care for people today and find a cure for tomorrow.

“I would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has helped make this year’s Memory Walk such a brilliant success.”