TWO researchers from the University of Exeter are gearing up to reach their funding goal for dementia research.

Drs Mark Tarrant and David Llewellyn plan to cycle from London to Paris to raise money for Alzheimer’s Society, to help fund work to gain new insights into dementia. Currently, the pair are £400 off their funding target of £1,550.

Dr Llewellyn, a dementia researcher, knows how tough preparation can be. He had planned to join a team of six dementia researchers on the ride last summer - but had to withdraw after breaking his wrist when he fell off his bike during training.

The pair will embark on their four-day challenge in July this year arriving in Paris and crossing the Tour de France finish on the Champs D’Elysee.

Last year’s Exeter team raised more than £12,000 for Alzheimer’s Society.

Over the next couple of months the pair will build on their training to take on a gruelling 100 miles per day in the saddle for four days straight, to raise money for a cause close to their hearts.

Alzheimer’s society is the UK’s leading dementia charity. It provides information and support, funds research, campaigns to improve care and creates lasting change for people affected by dementia.

With someone in the UK developing dementia every three minutes, the need to unite in the fight against dementia has never been more pressing.

Anyone wishing to support the pair’s fundraising should donate via Dr Tarrant’s Justgiving page: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/marktarrant91 .