A BOURNEMOUTH lecturer is raising money in the fight against dementia by taking part in the Great South Run.

Emma Evans, 35, is collecting cash for Alzheimer’s Society in memory of her grandma Ursula, who passed away with the condition just after her 90th birthday.

Emma, who works at Bournemouth and Poole College, said: “I signed up for the Great South Run because I really wanted to do something in memory of my grandma.

“The furthest I’ve ever run before is 10k, so it is going to be a challenge. I really want to raise money for Alzheimer’s Society to help other people who are going through the same as my family.”

Emma said watching her grandma deteriorate over the years and visiting her in the care home was very hard for her family, especially when she no longer recognised them.

She added: “I remember when my daughter was only a few months old, we took her to see grandma, and couldn’t believe the response she showed to having a baby in the room.

“Grandma knew exactly how to soothe and care for her and it was so moving to see her behaving like herself again.”

Liz Monks, director of fundraising at the charity, said: “We are delighted that Emma is giving her time to support Alzheimer’s Society. One in three people over 65 will die with dementia. It is caused by diseases of the brain and can happen to anyone.

“As a charity, we rely on the generosity of individuals like Emma to help us continue our vital work.”

Emma hopes to raise at least £250 for Alzheimer’s Society by taking part in the Great South Run on Sunday October 28. To sponsor her visit justgiving.com/MrsE76.