5 days ago
Man completes gruelling running challenge in memory of grandfather
A MAN has completed a gruelling challenge to raise money for the Alzheimer's Society after the loss of his grandfather, who lived in Brampton.
Luke Hodgson, 26, embarked on a five-day charity run from Liverpool to Brampton in memory of his grandad, John Ridley.
Luke said: "I lost my granddad last year and I wanted to raise awareness about the disease and highlight the fantastic work the charity does - it was a big help to our family.
Luke with proud family members (Image: Paul Grindley) 'Last year we lost our granda after a tough few years, slowly deteriorating with Alzheimer's and double dementia, and it was impossibly hard to see the disease take over first-hand.
'He was always an incredibly strong man, and seeing his personality change so much was incredibly strange and tough, especially for my Nana, who was taking care of him.
'The Alzheimer's Society have been incredible with the support they have provided, especially for my nana, and the work they do in researching causes, care and the prevention of dementia is so important.'
Luke began his challenge on Monday, August 4 and arrived in Brampton on Friday, August 8.
Luke received a warm welcome from his family and friends along with representatives of Brampton Parish Council - an organisation which his grandma, Mrs Connie Ridley, was leader of for many years.
L to R - Town Crier Brian Pease, Mrs Connie Ridley, Luke and Jenni Errington, Leader of Brampton Parish Council (Image: Paul Grindley) The current Council Leader, Jenni Errington, presented Luke with a medal to mark his achievement.
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There was also a reception in the town's Moot Hall for Luke and his family, friends and supporters.
Luke said: "I have fond memories of the time I spent in Brampton with my grandparents. Everybody in Brampton knew them and when you went out with them in town, you felt like you were with a celebrity because everybody stopped to say hello.
"This challenge feels like I'm running up to my nana."
