Volcano trek raises £25,000 for dementia support

A group of walkers has raised £25,000 for dementia support in Jersey by completing a trek through the Avenue of Volcanoes in Ecuador.

The 14 islanders took on the four-day trek, experiencing high altitudes and steep climbs, to raise money for Dementia Jersey and help support the 1,600 people living with dementia on Jersey.

Their route followed ancient trading paths through a steep-sided canyon, with peaks rising to heights of 4,000m (13,000ft).

Participant Jacquie Butlin said: "It was challenging in all the best ways, pushing me out of my comfort zone while surrounded by the most inspiring group of people."

Julia Foley, an advisor at Dementia Jersey - which is celebrating its 15th anniversary this year, took part in the walk and said it had been "an incredible adventure".

"Stepping out of my comfort zone on Dementia Jersey's trek led me across the beautiful scenery of Ecuador, sharing life experiences and making wonderful friends along the way," she added.

Money raised from the self-funded trip will help the charity to offer services and activities for people living with or affected by dementia in Jersey.

It also aims to raise awareness of the illness and help create a dementia friendly island.

Dementia Jersey's Nadine Jagger said the charity was "incredibly proud" of the group.

"Their determination, kindness and support for one another were inspiring to witness," she added.

The charity is challenging islanders to sign up to run, walk or jog 50 miles (80.4km) in January as it begins a new year of fundraising.

It said the 50 Mile Challenge was "perfect for all the family to get involved in and get those steps in".

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