Free Memory Walk returns to Leigh on 5 July

Wigan Borough’s Memory Walk will return to Pennington Flash in Leigh on Sunday 5 July, giving residents a free way to support dementia care and research while spending the morning at the nature reserve.

The fundraiser starts at 11am and is open to everyone. It is run by Wigan Council’s Be Well leisure and wellbeing service, with proceeds going to the Alzheimer’s Society. People can register in advance through the Be Well Wigan app or website, or sign up on the day.

Pennington Flash hosts the borough’s only walk this year

This year’s Memory Walk is being held at Pennington Flash, the Leigh nature reserve that has become a familiar setting for the annual fundraiser. Organisers say it will be the only Wigan Borough Memory Walk in 2026, after recent years included more than one event.

More than 300 people attended last year’s Memory Walks at Pennington Flash and Haigh Woodland Park, raising more than £3,000 for the charity. The event has raised thousands of pounds over the past 13 years to help fund dementia care and research.

Councillor Chris Ready, Wigan Council’s cabinet portfolio holder for communities and neighbourhoods, said most people in the borough know someone affected by dementia, whether a relative, friend or loved one. He said the council wants this year’s walk to be its “biggest and best one yet”.

Two walking options, music and family activities

Participants can choose between a 5km route around Pennington Flash or a shorter, more accessible stroll lasting around 20 minutes. That makes the event suitable for a wide range of ages and abilities, including families who want to take part together without committing to the full route.

The programme also includes music and family activities, with a special adventure trail for children. Visitors will also have access to the reserve’s usual attractions, including its nature-themed play area.

The fundraising focus is the Alzheimer’s Society, which supports families affected by dementia, funds research and campaigns around dementia services and awareness. Pauline Blackie, the charity’s dementia café coordinator for Wigan Borough, said donations help bring the charity closer to “a world where dementia no longer devastates lives”.

How to register and donate

The walk is free to join, and donations are encouraged. Registration will be available on the day, but organisers say signing up in advance through the Be Well Wigan app or website can save time and guarantee a certificate of participation.

Anyone who donates £10 or more will receive a special Memory Walk souvenir tote bag. Official sponsorship forms are available through Be Well, and donations can be made on the day or through the official JustGiving page, with every penny going to the Alzheimer’s Society.

Source: Wigan Council