TWO friends are set to tackle a three-peak challenge in Cumbria for the Alzheimer’s Society following the diagnosis of two women close to their hearts.

Nicola Whittam, 48, from Grange, and Hayley Dixon, 22, from Ulverston, are taking their fight against dementia across the county border by taking part in the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge on Saturday. , July 25.

The fundraising bid comes after Mrs Whittam’s mother was diagnosed with vascular dementia and Mrs Dixon’s grandmother passed away from the disease at Christmas.

Scaling mountains Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough within 12 hours, Mrs Whittam and Miss Dixon, who both work at Westerly Care home in Grange, will take on the challenge to raise money for the 800,000 people in the UK who have a form of dementia.

Mother-of-three, Mrs Whittam, said: “I wanted to take part in the challenge for the Alzheimer’s Society because my Mum is 74 and was diagnosed with vascular dementia when she was only 67 and she is now in her later stages of the disease.

“I love the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales and have always wanted to trek in the Yorkshire Dales and I’m hoping that by raising funds for the Alzheimer’s Society that more support can be provided for people with dementia.”

Always looking for a new challenge, Mrs Whittham will also be taking part in the Manchester Memory Walk, the Barrow Colour Run and the Gelt Gladiator in 2016.

Hoping to raise more than £500, Mrs Dixon, said: “I decided to take part in the challenge because my Nanna, who was also my best friend, passed away over Christmas. She was 69 and suffered with vascular dementia for six years.

“I have always wanted to climb the Yorkshire three peaks, and this challenge enables me to do this and so much more. It’s great to know that every mile I climb will help support people to live well with dementia today and fund research to find a cure for tomorrow.”

Mrs Dixon will also be taking on other fundraising events including the Gelt Gladiator and the Manchester memory walk.

Jeremy Hughes, chief executive at Alzheimer’s Society, said: “We are delighted that Nicola and Hayley are giving their time to support the Alzheimer’s Society. As a charity, we rely on the generosity of individuals like Nicola and Hayley to help us continue our vital work.”

To sponsor Nicola please visit www.justgiving.com/nicola-whittam  or text LYCR54 £2 to 70070.

To sponsor Hayley please visit: www.justgiving.com/MargartesATeam or text MARG71 £2 to 70070.