Two local businesses are undertaking the gruelling 3 Peaks Challenge to raise money for Dudley Council’s dementia support service.

Businesses AMES Group and Grosvenor Mobility are attempting the Three Peaks Challenge on 29 June 2018, dressed at the Peaky Blinders. The 13 strong team made up of businesses in the Black Country and Bromsgrove are hoping to raise at least £7,000 for the charity that supports those living with dementia and Alzheimer’s and their loved ones.

Over 72 hours the group will be tackling the highest mountains of England, Scotland and Wales starting with Ben Nevis, Scaffell Pike and completing their mission with Snowdon on the Sunday. The group will have conquered 26 miles and a total ascent of 9,800ft during the 3 day challenge.

The group have been training for the challenge for the last three months with walks every week varying from Canal Walks to Malvern Hills and have already reached 40 per cent of their target. Alan Read, MD AMES Group Ltd said:

“The whole idea started when my friends and I were travelling back from a skiing break. A specific goal to raise money and awareness for Alzheimer’s and dementia was agreed and we decided to form a team who wanted a challenge and to have a lot of fun while raising money.

“I have personally witnessed how family members battling with Alzheimer’s and dementia suffer terribly and this has been my driving force for the challenge. Soon, we will conquer the three highest mountains in Britain and raise an incredible amount of money for a fantastic cause… we hope!”

Dudley Council runs two dementia gateways – Brett Young Centre in Halesowen and The Crystal Gateway in Brierley Hill. The gateways offer information and advice to support people diagnosed with dementia, their families and carers. They offer preventative services along with respite and long-term support, which can include day sessions at the gateways. Councillor Nicolas Barlow, cabinet member for adult social care said:

"Our dementia gateways provide an invaluable service to people living with dementia, their families and carers. The practical support, professional knowledge and genuine understanding not only of the condition, but the needs of carers is what makes them such important services.

“We’re incredibly grateful to the teams from Ames Group and Grosvenor Mobility for choosing to support the Brett Young Gateway through this challenge and we wish them the best of luck.”

To find out more about the dementia gateways and what support may be available for a loved one contact 01384 816039 or go to the council's website. To support AMES and Grosvenor Mobility in their challenge and to donate to Alzheimer Society, please visit their JustGiving page.