St John's Winchester charity is spearheading a cycling campaign to support approximately 2,000 dementia sufferers.

The campaign, Ride to Remember, is a fundraising effort to boost critical funding for the Dementia Support service that has already received over 200 referrals and assisted more than 450 people via Admiral Nurses, Dementia Support Workers and Memory Wellbeing Centres.

Between May 1-31, residents are encouraged to cycle 100 miles or a shorter distance of 67 miles (100km), according to their fitness levels. The activity can be on a stationary, pedal, or electric bike and incorporated into long weekend rides, family outings or daily commute.

Participants can join as individuals or as part of a group such as a business or organisation. Challenge Champion, Mark McLaren is leading the campaign through his participation in the Hampshire Hilly Hundred on May 19.

Mr McLaren, diagnosed with Early Onset Dementia, frequently avails of the St John’s Dementia Support service and regularly attends the weekly Memory Wellbeing Centres.

The funds accumulated will facilitate the appointment of an additional Admiral Nurse to the service, a specialist nurse supported and trained by Dementia UK to provide transformative care for families affected by dementia.

Mr McLaren said: "My diagnosis of Early Onset Dementia greeted me with great surprise however I am now living my best life. I receive incredible support from my family and the Admiral Nurses, which is truly unsurpassable.

"I was oblivious to the existence of this fantastic group of wonderful caring people and have so valued the help that I have received from the service. As a result, I wish to give something back to the charity.

"My intention is to raise funds for the Dementia Support service, which is at capacity after only a short time. I am an avid cyclist and I hope to lead a network of cyclists in fundraising for this very worthy cause."

The initiative starts on May 1 and finishes on May 31. The highest fundraising individual, team, and organisation will be recognised with prizes.

To find out more, visit the St John's Winchester website.