AN experienced fell walker plans to teach novices navigational skills on some of the Lake District's highest summits – despite having dementia.

Sion Jair says his diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease does not affect his ability to pursue his passion for hiking.

The 67-year-old, of Larch Grove, Ulverston, famously completed a gruelling 26-mile 'mountain marathon' that saw him scale 12 Lake District peaks in less than 24 hours with his partner Wendy Kolbe last year.

Now he has launched a charitable venture – Special Services 24/7 – to help rookie fell walkers make the most of the region's stunning landscape.

And he is donating proceeds from the service to two charities close to his heart – the Alzheimer's Society and Mountain Rescue.

Mr Jair, who was diagnosed with the condition in 2013, said: "I've been navigating in the mountains for 50 years and I continue to do so every day.

"The skills and techniques I rely on are embedded in me. My dementia only prevents me from learning new things but doesn’t affect what I already know."

Mr Jair – dubbed The Old Man of Coniston because he walks to the summit every day – believes the physical endurance involved keeps his dementia at bay.

And there is evidence to support this theory. Researchers say regular activity and a healthy diet can delay the onset or slow down the progress of dementia.

Explaining Special Services 24/7, Mr Jair said: "Half of what we receive will be used to support the on-going running costs and the other half will be donated to our two chosen charities.

"I have built a small, dedicated team of professionals around me. Our aim is to help people maximise their enjoyment of walking in the Lake District whilst staying safe.

"We will teach them traditional map and compass techniques, together with skills that will help them to find their way whatever the conditions without relying on technology, which can often fail when it’s needed most."

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Sue Swire, Alzheimer’s Society community fundraiser, said: "We're delighted to have been chosen as a beneficiary of this exciting venture and wish it success.

"Sion has been a fabulous ambassador for the Alzheimer's Society, raising money and awareness. Above all, he has shown that you can live well with dementia."

Businesses who want to sponsor the venture are being urged to get in touch.

For more information, click here .