A PENSIONER smashed his goal of walking one million steps in 72 days - with his fundraising target reaching almost nine times his goal.

Peter Bainbridge, 72, completed the Memory Walk in his home city of Carlisle to support Alzheimer’s Society’s vital work.

He had challenged himself to walk an incredible one million steps in 72 days. Peter's goal was to raise £200 for the charity.

He set off walking every day and not only completed his goal of reaching one million steps by Monday, he also smashed his fundraising target and raised £1,765.

The idea for the challenge came about after Peter saw a news story on TV about a man in a care home living with dementia who was struggling during the pandemic, so he decided he wanted to do something to help.

“I am so proud I have now finished my walk challenge and raised vital funds for the UK’s leading dementia charity Alzheimer’s Society,” said Peter.

“I managed to complete the steps in the last eight days, a day before care homes opened their doors to visitors again.

"This is what motivated me to do the fundraising for Alzheimer’s Society.”

Sue Swire, community fundraiser for Cumbria and Lancashire, said: “The coronavirus pandemic has been devastating for families in Cumbria.

“People affected by dementia need us now more than ever, but the pandemic has hit us hard financially, despite an unprecedented demand for our services.

“We want to thank Peter for his amazing fundraising efforts, and everyone taking part in a walking event for us across Cumbria.

“Money raised will help Alzheimer’s Society reach and support more people through our vital services, like the Dementia Connect support line, which has been used almost three million times in the UK since March 2020.”

She added: “We are in awe of the resilience of supporters like Peter whose dedication to fundraising for Alzheimer’s Society ensures that we are able to support those who need it most during this difficult period.”

Peter is one of thousands of supporters completing their own Memory Walk, sponsored by Santander, throughout March.

People can sign up for free and choose a location to suit them.

To take part in a trek or Memory Walk to raise money for the Alzheimer’s Society, go to their website by visiting alzheimers.org.uk/events.