Pupils trek the desert in aid of Alzheimer's charity

Pupils from a school in Northamptonshire are set to trek across the Sahara Desert in order to raise fund for Alzheimer's Research UK.

The group, made up of 15 children and two teachers from Wellingborough School, will fly to Morocco today (17thFebruary) before spending three days walking across the arid north African landscape.

More than £10,000 has already been raised from sponsors, but they are hoping to gain more donations over the next few days.

Kevin Hargreaves, housemaster of the school's Cripps' House, said the trip will be a growing experience for those taking part.

"Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia will affect us all in some way or another in the coming years, if not already, and the only way to fight it is through research. That’s why we’re supporting Alzheimer’s Research UK.

"It’s an appalling disease that not only robs people of loved-ones, but also their memories of that love.”

Jodie Vaughan, Alzheimer's Research UK's community fundraising manager, said that every £20 raised will pay for one hour of research and potentially bring a breakthrough closer.

Find out more about Alzheimer's disease care at Barchester homes