Ex-airman Mike helps start off charity trek
ARETIRED airman was the guest of honour at a charity walk in aid of the Alzheimer’s Society.
Mike Brookes, from Milnrow, who is living with vascular dementia, cut the ribbon to start the Manchester Memory Walk in Heaton Park.
The 74-year-old, who served as an electronics officer flying with Vulcan bombers, set 6,000 walkers on their way at the event on Saturday.
He said: “I’m proud to have cut the ribbon to start everyone on their way.
“Six thousand is a heck of a lot of people uniting with the Alzheimer’s Society against dementia.”
Mike, who was based at RAF Scampton with the 617 Squadron - the Dambusters, was accompanied on the walk by his wife Liz, 61.
He added: “I just want to show people that a diagnosis of dementia isn’t the end of the world.
“I’ve lived with it for a long while now.
“I was really worried when I learned I had the ●●Cutting the ribbon to start the Manchester Memory Walk at Heaton Park are, from the left, Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham Mike Brookes, who is living with vascular dementia, Mike’s wife Liz and Coronation Street star Daniel Brocklebank. condition, but raising awareness with the walk and talking about it helps people not to be frightened.”
Coronation Street star Daniel Brocklebank, who plays vicar Billy Mayhew, also took part.
He said: “Seeing thousands of people at Manchester Memory walk is absolutely wonderful.
“It’s amazing to be met with a sea of blue t-shirts worn by walkers supporting Alzheimer’s Society’s battle to fund services and research into finding a way to stop the condition in its tracks.
“I know only too well the impact of dementia on family members.
“For me this is close to home,”
Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham said: “It is inspiring to be with so many people coming together to raise money and unite against dementia
“Dementia is one of the biggest health and care challenges we face across the country.
“Too many people are not getting the support they deserve and are entitled to - we need to ensure that changes.
“We are working hard to make sure that Greater Manchester is a truly age friendly place where people affected by dementia can continue to make a full contribution and experience great things in the same way that everyone can.”