Former newsreader opens Alzheimer’s Research’s Walk in Southampton

Southampton Common was awash with orange on Sunday as hundreds of people took part in the Alzheimer’s Research UK's Walk for a Cure.

People from all over the city took part in the walk, raising over £32,000 as of Sunday morning.

The 5k circular around the common saw 450 walkers set-off.

The event, held for the first time in Southampton, was opened by Britain’s longest-serving newsreader, Alastair Stewart, 72, who retired last year after revealing he was living with dementia and had a series of minor strokes.

Alastair Stewart, 72, and wife Sally, 71 (Image: NQ)

The broadcaster who previously worked for ITV News and Channel 4 said the decision to leave the full-time role at GB News was due to his health.

Mr Stewart told the Echo: “One of the key things about this walk which is brilliant to be involved with is that it is raising an awful lot of money that will help find a cure but is also raising awareness which is why when I got my diagnosis with vascular dementia, we decided to go very public to encourage other people who may they think have got some form of dementia to check.

“I was just chatting with a woman and this woman had her dad, but she felt the need to be here for his memory and to help others which is phenomenal.

“There are small people, little ones doing it as well as older folk doing it, and dementia is one of the fastest growing ailments in this country and it’s very important to be here.”

Pippa Waite, event organiser for Alzheimer's Research UK said: “We piloted this event last year in three locations and this year it has completely exceeded what we expected in terms of lineup. It’s the first time we are doing it in Southampton and last year we did it in Edinburgh.

“There are treks and there are hikes, and this walk is more about people doing it in community and doing it together.”

When asked about the number of people taking part in the walk, she added: “We’re pretty happy with the numbers. I definitely think it’s raising awareness and that he came forward and shared the diagnosis has helped for people to be more aware of it and hopefully it will draw more people to join us and help fund the path for one day to find a cure to this.