"My Dad won’t get the retirement he deserves or have his happily ever after with my mum after his crippling Alzheimer's diagnosis."

That is what James Scott said has inspired his epic multi-marathon challenge raising money for the charity researching the terrible disease.

Stuart Scott, 63, has spent his life in Blackburn and worked at the East Lancs Tile Centre and is a well-recognised member of the community, but his dreams of a long, happy retirement were rocked when diagnosed with Alzheimer's two years ago.

In his honour, James is running 12 marathons across Europe to raise money for Alzheimer's Research UK.

James, 32, said: “My dad, Stuart, is the inspiration behind this entire challenge.

“After my dad’s diagnosis, I wanted to make a difference, both by raising money for this important cause and by reconnecting with friends along the way.

“The response so far has been amazing, and I’m especially excited that my dad will be there to see me cross the finish line of my first race.”

James starts his journey at the West Coast Half Marathon from Preston to Fairhaven, before heading to races in Bordeaux, Ireland, Rekyjavik and even a midnight run in Norway.

He is inviting anyone who wants to join him at the start or finish of any of his races and hopes to bring people together through the challenge.

James said: “I’m hoping for a smooth start, though I’m bracing for some classic North West weather—rain might be the most enthusiastic supporter on race day.”

Having competed in long-distance running before, the geochemist has had to return to the level of fitness through intense training, much of which was done in the early hours.

James added: “The early mornings and long runs can be tough, but the support from my partner, family, friends, and the incredible team at Alzheimer’s Research UK keeps me going.

“When I’m lacing up my shoes at 6am for a two-hour run before work, I know I’m not alone—I’ve got an amazing community cheering me on every step of the way.”

He is aiming to raise £5,000 for the charity which hopes to revolutionise the way that dementia is treated, diagnosed and prevented.

Dementia affects around 1,500 families in Blackburn alone and almost one million people in the UK.

Simon McDermott, regional fundraising officer for the North West at Alzheimer’s Research UK, said: “We’re so grateful to James for supporting Alzheimer’s Research UK.

"If nothing changes, one in two of us will be directly affected by dementia – either by caring for someone with the condition, developing it ourselves, or both.

“Fantastic fundraising efforts like this will help us get closer to a cure for people with dementia and their loved ones. We wish James the best of luck!”