Dementia UK - The final total is in...

Paula, from our events team, not only coordinated this year’s fundraising efforts but also stepped up to the challenge of hiking Snowdon. Joining the mission from our front-of-house team, Cristiane completed an incredible 457 km cycle from Paris to Cookham. Here are the highlights and the dedicated work that went on behind the scenes to support Dementia UK.

(Cristiane, Paris to Cookham cycle) (Jenny and Paula, climb to Snowdon)

Paula, we’ve just seen the final figures. Can you tell us how the club was able to raise such an incredible total?

Yes, the results are in! Thanks to a massive team effort and the generosity of Partners and visitors, we raised £11,272.68 for Dementia UK. The year was packed with everything from quiz nights and tombolas to 'swiftie' bracelet-making at Rock the Manor. A huge thank you to everyone who bought a raffle ticket, a plant, or even a dog treat at reception to help us hit this incredible total!

Last summer was particularly memorable for the Odney 'Try-Athlon'. It was a huge physical undertaking: Cristiane cycled her way from Paris to Odney, Team Odney swam a combined 559 lengths, and I tackled the climb up (and down!) Snowdon, Wales.

Speaking of Snowdon, that was a huge personal milestone for you. Could you tell us more about your hike and what was your highlight during this fundraising journey?

Hiking up Snowdon was a huge personal achievement. Just two years ago, this would not have been possible for me. Having lost five stone, I can honestly say it was tough, and there were moments when I questioned why I was doing it. Every step upward was fuelled by my 'why': my wonderful father. After spending five years caring for him through his journey with Vascular Dementia and Alzheimer’s, this climb was for him. Standing at the top, I proved to myself that I truly can achieve anything I set my mind to.

The RE:Fashion Show was another fantastic moment for me personally, because I’m a huge advocate for the 'recycle, reuse, renew' ethos. I practice this daily, as a member of the WI and I’m part of a 'buy, sell, giveaway' group where everything from plant pots to dining tables finds a new home by sunset.

Beyond the sustainability, it was incredibly rewarding to see our partners grow in confidence. Many were nervous about the catwalk at first, but seeing them return backstage absolutely beaming was a triumph for all of us.

Cristiane, tell us about you're cycle from Paris to Cookham.

Over five days, I completed a 457 km journey from Paris to Cookham in support of Dementia UK. One of my biggest challenges was judging my daily stamina while only booking accommodation a day in advance; during the first two days, I didn't even know where I would spend the night. My only real rule was simple: stop before the light fades.

I’ll be the first to admit I’m not a "hardcore" cyclist like the Velo Club riders who head out in any weather, though I am so grateful to the club for their expert tips. Before this, I was a fair-weather rider mostly clocking 40 miles a week on my commute. This trip taught me exactly what it takes to sustain momentum over long distances. While the French leg was a dream, especially the stunning Avenue Verte, the English hills were a massive challenge I wasn't entirely prepared for. However, the experience has truly motivated me to get serious about my fitness and embrace this next chapter in cycling.

The ride carried a deeply personal meaning for me, as my mother back in Brazil is living with dementia. Every mile I cycled was for her and for everyone affected by this condition. Because this disease impacts millions of families worldwide, my hope is that by coming together, we can fund the research needed to find a cure and improve lives. Supporting this charity is my way of contributing to that hope.

For anyone considering a similar challenge, my top tip is to take the Eurostar if you can. If you’re a recreational cyclist like me, try to give yourself a little more time to truly soak in the charming villages along the way. Most importantly, enjoy the scenery, embrace the journey, and stay open to the wonderful people you’ll meet. It is truly an unforgettable experience!

While we’ve loved supporting Dementia UK, it’s time to hand over the baton.

Who is our 2026 charity?

We are delighted to announce that our chosen charity for 2026 is Elizabeth House!

Based right here in the heart of Cookham, Elizabeth House is a vital day centre providing support and companionship for independent senior citizens in our village. We’re looking forward to keeping our fundraising efforts local and supporting a team that does so much for our immediate community. Watch this space!