Ayrshire residents are being encouraged by Alzheimer Scotland to join their annual Memory Walk, which this year will be held virtually.

As physical events can’t take place due to the coronavirus pandemic, the charity wants people to support them during these challenging times by taking part in their own walk over the weekend of September 19 and 20.

Participants are free to walk whatever route they feel comfortable with.

Whilst the usual Memory Walk events cover a 5km distance this there is no limit and it’s free of charge to enter.

All the charity is asking is that participants consider fundraising or making a donation to help them continue to make sure nobody faces dementia alone.

Participants will be provided with exclusive content over the big weekend including warm up videos, good luck messages, scavenger hunts, specially selected Spotify playlists and more.

They will also be able to share pictures and memories of their loved ones on Alzheimer Scotland’s digital memory walk wall.

The coronavirus pandemic has had a significant impact on Alzheimer Scotland’s ability to raise money.

Every penny raised as a result of the Memory Walk will go directly towards the support they offer across Scotland, including their 24-hour freephone dementia helpline which witnessed a 30 per cent increase in calls during lockdown.

Sarah Cheung, stakeholder engagement lead at Alzheimer Scotland, said: “Every year thousands of people come together to take part in a Memory Walk; with many people walking in honour or memory of a loved one. We hope that our supporters will still come together, albeit virtually, to raise awareness and funds but also to recognise and celebrate the dementia community.”

To sign up visit www.alzscot.org/memorywalk.