PEOPLE across Ayrshire are being urged to lace up their walking shoes to help raise vital funds for people with dementia and their families by signing up to Alzheimer Scotland’s Memory Walk series taking place this autumn.

The Ayrshire Memory Walk will take place along Saltcoats and Ardrossan promenade, starting at the Labour Club on September 11.

It will raise money to help support 7,076 people living with dementia across the region and the countless partners, family members and friends also affected.

Memory Walks are open to walkers of all ages and abilities, as well as being wheelchair, buggy and also dog-friendly, so there’s no reason the entire family can’t make it the perfect day out. The Ayrshire Memory Walk will feature musical entertainment, face painting and other family activities.

Gerry McCoy, spokesperson for Alzheimer Scotland, said: “We are all very excited about our Ayrshire Memory Walk event this year and we need as many local people as possible to come along and challenge dementia, celebrate loved ones, and enjoy a fantastic day out in the beautiful Scottish outdoors. Together we can make a huge difference to the lives of people living with dementia and their families across the region.”

Dementia is the biggest health and social care challenge faced by society today. There are more than 90,000 people living with dementia in Scotland. The money raised from the Ayrshire Memory Walk will be used to support local dementia services including Dementia Advisors and Link Workers.

Registration is £10 for adult walkers, £5 for 12-16 year olds and under 12s can walk for free. Alzheimer Scotland is asking participants to raise £100 in sponsorship.

Visit www.memorywalksscotland.org to find out more and to register.