Winner of the REC ‘One in a Million’ and ‘Agency Office Worker’ awards Michael Ross aims to raise more than £350 for his contractor the Alzheimer’s Society by completing the BUPA Great North Run this year – and has persuaded David Vizard from award sponsor Oriel Support to help him hit the target.

The pair met at the champagne reception where Michael was presented with his awards during National Temporary Workers Week. He impressed David, who felt inspired to join him in the high-endurance half marathon from Newcastle to South Shields in aid of the Society.

“I have always held aspirations to run a marathon or half marathon, so when I met Michael and heard what he was planning it seemed like fate,” says David. “Alzheimer’s is a cause close to my heart – my wife’s grandfather died from the disease so I understand the pain and suffering all parties go through.

“I’m into my fourth week of training now and it’s going well – but it is a real challenge. I certainly got more than I bargained for when I met Michael at the awards do.”

Alzheimer’s is more widespread than cancer, but lack of awareness means that people with dementia face ignorance as well as the challenges of the condition itself. Michael, pictured left says: “Living with dementia is a real test of endurance both for people who have it and their loved ones. Likewise, the Great North Run will test our endurance emotionally and physically.”

On 26 July Michael is hosting a ‘One in a Million’ night with the REC in attendance to help raise funds. Anybody wanting to attend the event can visit http://www.alzheimers.org.uk/ for further information.