A RUNCORN businessman whose dad is in the late stages of Alzheimer's has completed a 1,548-mile charity drive to the birthplace of the doctor who discovered the devastating disease.

Andrew Langley revved up the Alzheimer's Society's fundraising mission after enduring the journey from Bentleys Motor Group's dealership in Warrington to Marktbreit, Germany.

Bentleys provided Andrew, who heads up North West Consulting in Runcorn, with one of its vehicles for the challenge.

At the age of 69, Andrew's dad has been described as a 'shadow of his former self', much to the anguish of those closest to him.

The drive to Marktbreit, the birthplace of Dr Alois Alzheimer, founder of the disease that bears his name, was done without the use of any navigation – be it satellite or map.

Andrew memorised the trip and provided a video record and daily updates.

Managing director of Bentleys Motor Group, Carl Baldwin, praised the businessman for his efforts.

He said: "We didn't hesitate when Andrew approached us about this initiative.

"We are delighted to be able to play a small part in raising awareness for a disease that is affecting more people every year and which needs increasing levels of research funding.

"We wish Andrew a safe and what will be a thought-provoking journey."

Alzheimer's Society community fundraiser for Cheshire, Ashley Dodd, added: "We're really grateful to Andrew Langley who is taking on this memory drive to Marktbreit, with the support of Bentleys Motor Group, to raise funds for us.

"Our charity provides a wide range of support in Cheshire where around 21,325 people are estimated to be living with dementia.

"As a charity we rely on the generosity of individuals like Andrew and companies like Bentleys to help us continue our work to provide vital services to people living with dementia and their families."

To support Andrew visit justgiving.com/fundraising/memorydrive.