THE organisers of a hugely successful 'memory walk' in Largs to support people with dementia have announced plans to hold a bigger and better second event this year.

The Largs Dementia Friendly group held its first such event in September last year, with more than 80 people taking part. 

And the group has now confirmed that the event will return in 2024.

The second 'memory walk' will be held at Barrfields Park on Sunday, June 2 - earlier than last year, in the hope that better weather will smile on the event.

Funds raised at the event, run by Largs Dementia Friendly and Alzheimer Scotland, will be split between the Dementia Friendly group and the volunteer driver service run by local charity North Ayrshire Cancer Care.

Robbie Stevenson, chair of the Largs Dementia Friendly group, said: "We have expanded the Memory Walk, which will raise funds for Largs Dementia Friendly.

"We will also be raising funds for North Ayrshire Cancer Care, mainly to support the drivers in and around the Largs area who volunteer to take people to hospital appointments, of which there are many.

Largs and Millport Weekly News: The skirl of the bagpipes could be heard at last year's first Memory WalkThe skirl of the bagpipes could be heard at last year's first Memory Walk (Image: Largs Dementia Friendly)

"From the last Memory Walk, we were contacted by Ardrossan Accies Rugby Club, who have groups who want to take part, so as well as walking football, there will be a mini rugby tournament going on as well."

Largs Dementia Friendly have also received funding from the Stakis Foundation towards the promotion and administration costs of the event.

Last year's event gave participants the chance to walk for as many - or as few - laps of the pitch at Barrfields Park as they wished, with 10 laps working out at two and a half miles. 

All participants were asked to wear purple in a nod to Alzheimer Scotland's corporate colour.

Largs and Millport Weekly News: Tai-chi was one of many activities on offer, with more planned for 2024Tai-chi was one of many activities on offer, with more planned for 2024 (Image: Gerry Begley)

Electric rickshaw rides, stalls run by various local groups, entertainment including live music and magicians, and a food and drink kiosk also featured.

Last year's fundraiser, which raised a total of £650, was also held in tribute to two community heroes -  local runner and Largs Fun Run co-ordinator Peter Grant, and first responder David MacDonald, who were both strong supporters of many community causes.