Recent times have seen the UK go through some of the most challenging and unforeseen economic turbulence which has effected everyone, but especially charities. As such, I wanted to do something to raise some vital funds for a charity that deals with an issue that touches very many people.

This year, the Danesmoor Group announced Dementia UK as our charity of the year for 2023 and we have set about raising as much money as possible that will go towards providing a lifeline and expert care to those who need it, and there are very many who do need it.

By 2025, over one million people across the UK are expected to be living with Dementia, and whilst this heart- breaking condition has no cure, support is available through Dementia UK’s specialist Admiral Nurses, who work directly with families affected by all forms of Dementia, every single day.

Fundraising really is the lifeblood of so many charities and I have taken the opportunity this year to play my part and to try and make a difference. Next month, along with nine colleagues from my business, I will be cycling 360km on cross country terrain across Italy, from Rimini on the Adriatic coast to Pisa on the Mediterranean side. I have around 20 years on the other participants involved although several of them have only taken to cycling this year as a result of the opportunity to join me on the trip, so it’s unlikely to be a comfortable experience for any of us.

Today I am asking if you will support our team and consider making a donation to Dementia UK on my behalf. The demand for Admiral nurses really does go beyond anything anyone realises, there simply are not enough of them to provide their much-needed support.

A significant number of my cycling team have first hand experience of dealing with the tragic consequences of Dementia in their own close family unit, and the chances are that you will also know someone who is dealing with it right now.

We are determined to make a difference and to provide Dementia with funds towards their important work in reducing the impact of this dreadful disease on our ageing population and we would be grateful for your support, however small.