A MAN from Fairlie is going the extra mile for a dementia charity in memory of his late father.

Douglas Rae, of Marine Court, is tackling the London Marathon for Dementia Revolution - a combination of Alzheimers Research UK and the Alzheimers Society.

Douglas's father Lewis, pictured with him above, was well known in Largs, where he was an elder at St John's Church.

He passed away in January and Douglas is hoping to raise plenty in tribute to his dad.

He told the News: "Dementia is not just a symptom of growing old and we need to do something about it.

"Awareness is beginning to improve, which can only be a positive thing.

"It is good to see more dementia groups in the area. They give carers some important respite as you know you can leave someone safe for an hour or two.

"Dementia in Largs and Fairlie is pretty prevalent because of the demographic. It is a big issue which has been quite hidden in the past.

"My father had worked with Scottish Water and West of Scotland Water and was known by a lot of people."

Douglas is married to Morna and is a project manager with an engineering company.

He is a member of North Ayrshire Athletics Club and is training to be ready for the London showpiece event on 28 April.

Douglas added: "I hope to raise around £4,000."

He added: "Research into the disease is grossly underfunded relative to the impact it has on the UK economy and the impact on people's lives.

"When Dementia Revolution was announced as the charity partner for London 2019 I knew I needed to run and to try and help fund research into treatment for the disease.

"I'll be thinking of my dad during the run and that will inspire me to the finishing line."

Donate to the appeal online here

Douglas also has a Facebook page, www.facebook.com/FairlieRunner and an Instagram account @fairlierunner"