A FAIRBOURNE woman has raised over £2,000 for Dementia UK by completing a marathon in her home village.

Nic Palmer ran the Chester Marathon virtually on Saturday, completing it in just over five hours.

The kind-hearted carer said she wanted to do the marathon “for Dementia UK because it affects everyone”, and has been personally inspired by dad, Terry, who has dementia.

Friend and colleague Gail Williams, who accompanied Nic on her bike, said the run started at 7.30am when “it was light but only just, and it was lashing down with rain”.

“Friends and family were there to wave her off and to welcome her back,” Gail added. “They also made the effort to stand in the rain at various stages along the way, with homemade banners and plenty of encouragement.”

Nic told the Cambrian News she was “overwhelmed” by everyone’s support.

“I’d like to say a massive thank you,” the 36-year-old said.

“The support on the day was unreal. I cried. People were shouting and cheering, and there were banners all round Fairbourne.

“Gail was on her bike with me the whole way round and one friend ran the first few miles with me, and another joined me later on for a few miles.

“There were people supporting me along the whole route. It was unbelievable.”

The rain eased off as Nic made her way along the Mawdach trail towards Dolgellau but came down heavily again as she returned to Fairbourne. Nic, who works at supported living care home, made good time and arrived back in Fairbourne just after 12.30pm.

As well as running the marathon, Nic organised fundraising a cake sale in June and a bingo afternoon on Sunday.

Her efforts have so far raised £2,232.

“I can’t believe how much I’ve raised,” said Nic, who had set herself a target of £250.

“Everyone has been great. My work colleagues and most of Fairbourne made cakes for the cake sale, and then came back and bought them! That raised £825.

“The on Sunday we had a bingo afternoon and that raised £100.”

Nic entered the Chester Marathon last year but the event was postponed because of the pandemic.

Because of ongoing concerns about Covid, she decided to take part in this year’s event at home.

Praising her friend, Gail added: “As well as having personal experience of caring for a loved one who has Dementia, she also works in the local area supporting adults with learning disabilities and, who are also affected by Dementia. Nic’s experience, dedication and caring manner is helping to make a positive impact on the lives of those she supports.

“Such support can at times go unnoticed, but I believe that over the last 18 months, Covid, as well as having an devastating impact, has also highlighted the dedication, compassion and selflessness of those working in social care in our local community and beyond.”

Nic has set up a JustGiving page where people can donate.

“Thank you to everyone who has donated so far. If anyone else would like to, the page will be open for a few more weeks.”

To donate, visit the fundraising page at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/nicola-palmer17