Hundreds run – and push around Knole Park to help raise cash for local dementia services

RUN, Walk or Push against Dementia returned to Knole Park for a second time to raise money for local dementia services on Sunday (13 May).

450 residents from all over the District and beyond turned out in full force to take on one of the timed 3, 5 or 10 kilometre 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 who will use the money to fund local dementia services and projects.

Competitors of all abilities were welcomed on the day but it was Martin Cornwell-McKeown who made it round first on the 10k course, Stephen Yau quickest on the 5k course and Alice Daniell finishing first on the 3k course.

Sevenoaks District Chairman, Cllr Larry Abraham who was on hand at the finish line to give out the medals, said: “Once again we are overwhelmed with such an incredible turnout on the day and seeing so many people passionately getting involved and doing their bit for such an important cause.

“This event really is for everyone, of any age, any size and any species as I was very pleased to see so many canine companions this year!

“Dementia is something that will affect everyone in one way or another and I think that shows with the amount of people who joined us. They should all be very proud of what they achieved this weekend.”

Elaine Ferris who co-chairs the Sevenoaks Area Dementia Friendly Community with Symone Salman, added: “The money raised goes solely to local projects and services for people living with dementia, memory and cognition issues. We will be able to open a new Forget-Me-Not café and start a much requested singing group along with continuing our three existing Forget-Me-Not cafés. Thank you to all those who helped on the day to make it a joyful experience for all.”

Donations for the charity can still be made by going to: www.sevenoaks.gov.uk/runwalkpush