A day to remember as annual feel-good fundraiser returns to Leigh

A day to remember as annual feel-good fundraiser returns to Leigh

Wigan Borough's Memory Walk returns to Pennington Flash on Sunday 5 July

Local residents are being urged to join the battle against dementia as Wigan Borough’s annual Memory Walk returns to Pennington Flash next month.

The feel-good fundraiser is back on Sunday 5th July (11am), with all proceeds going to the Alzheimer’s Society.

Run by the council’s Be Well leisure and wellbeing service, the event has already raised thousands to help fund dementia care and research over the past 13 years.

But with dementia remaining the UK’s biggest killer, organisers are urging even more people to join the fight.

Councillor Chris Ready, Wigan Council’s cabinet portfolio holder for communities and neighbourhoods, said: “Dementia continues to have a devastating impact in our communities.

“Whether it’s a loved one, a relative or a friend, most of us know somebody who has been affected by this cruel disease, and it’s a sad and shocking fact that one-in-three people born in the UK today will go on to develop dementia in their lifetime.

“That’s why it’s so important that we continue to get behind the work of the Alzheimer’s Society, so they can carry on their vital research and provide invaluable support for those currently living with dementia.

“Unlike in recent years, this will be our only Memory Walk for 2026 – so we really want to make it our biggest and best one yet!

“So, whether you and your family are personally affected by dementia or you just want to show your support for other members of our community who are, please sign up, come along and walk with us for a world without dementia.”

More than 300 people attended last year’s Memory Walks at Pennington Flash and Haigh Woodland Park, raising more than £3,000 for the charity.

The event is free to join and suitable for everyone, with participants able to choose between a 5km route around the nature reserve or a shorter, more accessible stroll lasting around 20 minutes.

There’ll also be a music and fun for the family – including a special adventure trail for little ones on top of the reserve’s usual attractions, such as its nature-themed play area.

Coun Ready added: “Even though it’s all for a serious cause, our Memory Walks are always such fun and heartwarming occasions with an incredibly uplifting atmosphere.

“It’s genuinely so lovely seeing so many people from across our community come along to support loved ones or remember those who are sadly no longer with us.

“Pennington Flash always makes for a fabulous family day out - especially in the summer - so why not sign up, get your friends and family to sponsor you for an amazing cause, and enjoy a day out with a difference, that really makes a difference.”

Pauline Blackie, the Alzheimer’s Society’s dementia café coordinator for Wigan Borough, said: “Alzheimer’s Society is the leading dementia charity in the UK and provides vital local and national services for families affected by all types of dementia, as well as funding groundbreaking research and campaigning to make dementia the priority it should be. 

“We are forever grateful for the tireless work done every year by the team at Be Well and Wigan Council to make the Wigan Borough Memory Walk such a fun and meaningful event. Every donation we receive gets us one step closer to a world where dementia no longer devastates lives.”

Although you can register on the day itself, you can save time and guarantee a certificate of participation by signing up in advance via the Be Well Wigan app or website. Those who also donate £10 or more will get a special Memory Walk souvenir tote bag.

Visit the Be Well website (external link) to find out more, or to download an official sponsorship form.

Meanwhile, donations can be made on the day or through the official Just Giving page (external link) – with every penny going to the Alzheimer’s Society.