2nd November 2020

Taking part in a marathon would be enough of a challenge for most people, but doing so in torrential rain and wind is even more impressive.

Dawn Holt completed all 26 miles of the Virtual London Marathon in atrocious weather recently by running five miles around her home village of Urchfont, then walking the remaining miles around Devizes, raising £477 for Alzheimer’s Support.

Dawn said: “I’m not really a runner but impulsively applied for the Virtual London Marathon. There’s a great medal on offer and who doesn’t love a bit of bling?

“I play flute with a local music group, Mistral, and before Covid struck we regularly entertained at Alzheimer’s Support’s Day Centres in Trowbridge and Devizes. There is always such a lovely, friendly, happy atmosphere there.

Continued support

 “It's been a strange year for us all but it's perhaps been particularly isolating for those affected by dementia and Alzheimer’s Support has continued to support local families during these difficult times.” 

Dawn’s friend and Alzheimer’s Support’s care co-ordinator Sarah Tyler joined her and cheered her on for the final stretch.

Sarah said: “I don’t think I've ever been so wet and I only walked the last six miles – Dawn did a whole marathon distance! I’m very proud of my selfless friend for doing this to raise money for Alzheimer's Support.”

Dawn added: “I think I shall forever associate heavy rain with the London Marathon now.”

Plan your own fundraising challenge to help people with dementia