'Seeing nan go from riding mopeds to barely recognising her family inspired first-ever marathon'

For Nigel Ryalls from Northampton, the motivation to take on his first ever marathon for charity was seeing the effect dementia had on his grandmother.

The 56-year-old said: “I have decided to take part in this challenge for Alzheimer’s Society because dementia affects so many individuals and families.

"My nan suffered from dementia in her later years, changing from a vibrant fun-loving moped-riding nan to someone who was virtually bed-ridden and barely able to recognise family and friends.

“It’s great to think that I will be raising funds to help support people living with dementia now and to fund research to one day find a cure for dementia.”

Nigel aims to raise more than £1,000 by running the Brighton Marathon on April 19.

He has been training hard with his running club, Wootton Road Runners, and has already clocked up 150 miles so far this year.

Alzheimer’s Society senior running events fundraising manager Jade Smith said: “It’s wonderful that Nigel is giving his time to support Alzheimer’s Society.

"Dementia devastates lives, but dementia won’t win.

"Until the day we find a cure, Alzheimer’s Society will be here to support anyone affected by dementia, wherever they are, whatever they’re going through.

"We need more people like Nigel to join us now and unite against dementia.”

To sponsor Nigel, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/nigel-ryalls.