After 18 challenging months for the social sector, a group of dementia care workers from Wellington and families of people living with dementia have combined their efforts to take on a whole different challenge and raised £1,000 in sponsorship money.

Richard Dempslake, who organised the team representing Camelot House and Lodge, said: “Being there for each other has been what enabled us to get through some very tough times in 2020 and 2021 – we’re honestly a team full of fortitude.

“It’s been pretty relentless so we thought taking part in a Tough Mudder would provide a welcome distraction, and since the preparation and the event itself are all about teamwork it meant that we could really play to our strengths.

“We did a 5K course with 13 obstacles - all different challenges - and we had to endure crawling and running in mud, going under cold muddy water, climbing height structures.

“It took a lot of nerve to complete all but we did it as a team.

“We raised over £1,000 which we’re going to divide between the Alzheimer’s Society and the activities fund for residents of Camelot House and Lodge.”

Members of the ten-strong team representing Camelot House and Lodge were activities co-ordinator Richard Dempslake, activities assistant Sophie Carter, admin assistant Paul Dempslake, finance manager Fiona Chesterton, Karen Kerslake and the Odgers family – Dawn, Alex, Robyn and Jess and Will Sun.

Dawn Odgers and her family took part on behalf of Dawn’s mum, Karen Whiteway, a resident at Camelot House.

Dawn said: “My mum has lived at Camelot for three years now and we have peace of mind knowing she is cared for in such a fantastic way, so raising money is our pleasure helping to give a little something back

“This period of Covid has been very difficult, especially when we weren’t allowed to visit Mum, but it was always reassuring to know her safety and well-being would be a priority for her care team.

“It’s been great doing the Tough Mudder with Richard and the rest of the team – although fun is maybe not the right word! Always up for a challenge though, and thanks to him for organising it.”