By KLTV Newsdesk –

Community comes together for 13-mile Northumberland beach walk in support of families affected by dementia

A determined group of walkers from a Huddersfield care home have raised almost £2,000 for Dementia UK after completing a sponsored 13-mile coastal walk in Northumberland.

Friends, families and staff from Aden View Care Home in Primrose Hill travelled to Bamburgh on the North East coast, where they took on a round-trip walk to Beadnell and back in aid of the specialist dementia charity.

With donations continuing to come in, the fundraising total has already exceeded £1,860, smashing the group’s original target of £250.

Walking for a cause close to their hearts

The group of 21 walkers was led by Hazel MacKay, whose husband, Bert MacKay, is a resident at Aden View Care Home and lives with dementia.

Reflecting on the event, Hazel said: “Dementia UK is an incredible cause that means so much to so many people. Every step of the sponsored walk was in support of families affected by dementia and the amazing work carried out by the charity and their Admiral Nurses.

“The weather was kind to us – a bit chilly setting off but it soon got warm. Our return to Bamburgh was in sunshine. Everyone agreed it was a great community feel, walking and chatting and making new friends.

“Thank you to everyone for your donations. They really will make a huge difference to those living with dementia and their loved ones.

“The fundraiser was so successful we plan to do it all again next year in a different location.”

An event that brought people together

Participants ranged in age from 16 to their 80s, with two canine companions, Violet and Walter, joining the walkers along the scenic coastline between Bamburgh, Seahouses and Beadnell.

Among those taking part was Aden View Care Home kitchen assistant Sharon Broadbent, who praised the event and the friendships made along the way.

She said: “The whole idea was brilliant. Amazing weekend and met some lovely people.”

Celebrating an incredible achievement

Aden View Care Home Manager Kimberley McKay congratulated everyone involved, highlighting both the fundraising success and the awareness raised for dementia.

She said: “What an incredible achievement by an amazing team of people. Walking 13 miles from Bamburgh to Beadnell via Seahouses while raising almost two thousand pounds is something to be incredibly proud of.

“Dementia has touched so many lives, and it’s inspiring to see our families, staff and friends all come together to raise both funds and awareness for such an important cause.

“Congratulations to everyone who took part, and thank you for making such a huge difference. Can I also send a huge thank you to Hazel who made this all happen – you’re one of a kind.”

Plans already underway for next year

Following the success of this year’s challenge, organisers are already planning another sponsored walk in a different location next year, hoping to build on the community spirit and fundraising success that made this event such a memorable occasion.

The money raised will support Dementia UK’s specialist Admiral Nurses, who provide expert advice and support to families living with dementia across the UK.