Lace up your walking shoes and mark your calendars for Saturday 2 September 2023, as Cassiobury Park in Watford invites the community to take part in the Watford Memory Walk.
Run by the Alzheimer’s Society, this event brings together people who understand the impact of dementia and provides an opportunity to share advice, laughter while raising funds for charity and supporting Watford’s goal of becoming a dementia-friendly town.
Participants of all ages are invited to take part in this incredible journey of solidarity, celebrating life and resilience. The walk offers two distinct routes, accommodating participants with varying levels of physical ability.
For those looking for a leisurely stroll through picturesque scenery, the shorter 3.5km route is the perfect choice. Participants will meander through Cassiobury Park's tree-lined avenues, renowned for their beauty and serenity. This route is suitable for Memory Walkers of all ages, including families with young children, and is accessible for pushchairs and wheelchairs with assistance.
For those seeking a bit more challenge and adventure, the longer 9km route is an ideal fit. This path will lead participants into the ancient Whippendell Woods, navigating through captivating woodland trails and conquering some hills along the way. While this route promises a more demanding experience, it presents a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature and share the journey with like-minded individuals.
While the shorter route is accessible for pushchairs and wheelchairs with assistance, we kindly request participants on the longer route to refrain from using these due to the nature of the pathways.
Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, said: "The Watford Memory Walk is a wonderful opportunity for our community to unite in support, working towards a more dementia-friendly town. As a town, we are immensely proud to host this event, standing in solidarity with those in Watford who are living with dementia and their carers. I urge as many individuals as possible to join us."
Councillor Jennifer Pattison, Portfolio Holder for Housing and Wellbeing, said: “The Watford Memory Walk is more than just a walk; it is a collective effort to support those affected by dementia and drive change on a global scale. By joining this event, not only will you have the chance to meet remarkable individuals who understand the challenges of dementia, but you will also contribute to funding crucial research and support programmes.”
After crossing the finish line, participants will receive a well-deserved medal as a symbol of their commitment to making a difference. Together, we will walk for a world where dementia is no longer a devastating force, but a condition that is understood, managed, and, ultimately, defeated.
Click here to register for the Watford Memory Walk
- NOTES TO EDITORS -
- Alzheimer’s Society Memory Walk is a series of sponsored walks held in September and October across the UK. It's free to sign up and open to all. Every year, thousands of incredible people come together to walk for a future where dementia no longer devastates lives.
- Dementia Friendly Watford - In Watford, Three Rivers and Hertsmere there are approximately 3,550 people living with dementia. That is why Watford Borough Council is committed to making Watford a 'dementia-friendly' town by, not only providing safe spaces for those living with dementia but providing vital services and support.
- Alzheimer’s Society is made up of people with dementia, carers, trusted experts, campaigners, researches, and clinicians. They are the UK’s largest collective force with unparalleled knowledge and over 40 years of experience addressing the biggest challenges facing people with dementia. Their work consists of dementia support services, funding dementia research and campaign action.