A 27-year-old woman who lost her dad to dementia joined Watford FC’s all-time leading goal scorer, Luther Blissett, to raise vital funds for people with dementia and their carers at Alzheimer’s Society Watford Memory Walk.

They joined more than fundraisers, Watford's mayor Peter Taylor, and councillors from across the town, who united against dementia for the charity’s flagship fundraising walk at Cassiobury Park.

Sarah Higgs, who has already raised over £800 for the charity, joined walkers on Saturday who turned the park blue to remember and support loved ones affected by dementia.

Watford Observer: Mick Downes, left, Luther Blissett, the former Watford FC star footballer, Sarah Higgs, and Peter Taylor, Mayor of Watford, cutting the ribbon to start The Alzheimer's Society Memory Walk. Credit: Andrew Higgins/Thousand Word MediaMick Downes, left, Luther Blissett, the former Watford FC star footballer, Sarah Higgs, and Peter Taylor, Mayor of Watford, cutting the ribbon to start The Alzheimer's Society Memory Walk. Credit: Andrew Higgins/Thousand Word Media

Ms Higgs said: "My dad went undiagnosed with dementia and Alzheimer’s for many years which sadly affected our relationship whilst I was in my teens. I had no idea about dementia then and wasn’t sure if it was just me being a stroppy teenager.

"Just over three years ago my dad was officially diagnosed, I began to understand more about dementia, how his actions/words were a part of the confusion of having this horrible disease which slowly kills off part of your brain until you’re unable to function anymore.

"Sadly, my dad passed away on August 29 last year. However, I am so thankful for the few years prior where I managed to 'have my Dad back' and the beautiful moments we spent together, almost daily during lockdown."

Watford Observer: Credit: Andrew Higgins/Thousand Words MediaCredit: Andrew Higgins/Thousand Words Media

Former Watford legend, Luther Blissett, also attended the walk. His mother was diagnosed with dementia shortly before she died while his partner's father has dementia.

He said: "The Memory Walk is important because it gives people an opportunity to honour loved ones who are living with dementia or remember those who have passed away from the condition.

"The things we do within the community, like Memory Walk, helps all of us. The atmosphere has been fantastic – people have come together with big smiles on their faces, ready to enjoy the day, while also raising money for Alzheimer’s Society."

Gail Neville took part in the walk in memory of her late mother, Maureen, who passed away in 2016 at the age of 76.

Ms Neville, who is responsible for day-to-day management of care at ProMedica24 said: "I started my career in care after my mum passed away, and I’ve since strived to increase awareness of what it’s like to live with dementia in my role as a care manager and by joining the Dementia Friends initiative with my colleagues.

"I walked in memory of mum and for all my clients and their families who have been affected by dementia. The money raised will support an incredible cause, and each penny will take us a step closer to a world without dementia."

Watford Observer: Gail Neville walked in memory of her motherGail Neville walked in memory of her mother

Watford Labour councillors took part in the event in memory of their former colleague Jackie Connal, who died last year.