A Herefordshire woman who is living with vascular dementia has been made ambassador of a nationwide charity.

Sue Strachan, who lives with vascular dementia, has been made an ambassador of Alzheimer's Research UK for her extraordinary efforts to raise awareness and much-needed funds for research.

Ms Strachan was sadly diagnosed with vascular dementia in 2014, aged just 58, and was hit by a second tragedy when she lost her beloved partner, Sheila in August.

Despite the shock of losing her partner of over 30 years, she has been determined to continue to do everything she can to support dementia research.

After her diagnosis, she became a supporter of Alzheimer’s Research UK when she ran the London Marathon in 2018, raising over £13,000.

Ms Strachan has gone on to do a variety of fundraising activities, including running two half marathons, having her head shaved, abseiling down the Orbit Tower in London, even having the charity’s old and new logos tattooed on her arms.

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In April this year, a team of Alzheimer’s Research UK supporters ran the London Marathon in her honour and raised over £70,000. The ‘Sue’s Crew’ team was made up of people from across the country who have become friends through their support of the charity.

Ms Strachan has also made a significant contribution to raising awareness of dementia through sharing her story, through a variety of interviews and campaigns. She has also starred in the Channel 4 documentary series, The Restaurant That Makes Mistakes.

Ms Strachan said she proud to have been asked to be an ambassador, adding that she wouldn't have been able to complete all of her charity work without her late partner's support.

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“She was very excited to get more involved in supporting the charity in a more public role, sharing her experience as a carer.

“But although things are difficult for me at the moment, I am still as determined as ever to do everything I can to support dementia research.

“Fundraising and volunteering for Alzheimer’s Research UK has been so important in helping me to stay positive, both while living with dementia and now after losing Sheila.

“As an ambassador, I will continue to share my story and bang the drum for research.”