A special Memory Walk took place in Llanberis on World Alzheimer’s Day (21 September), with local supporter Gwenda Hughes dedicating her efforts to honour two very special individuals in her life.
This was Gwenda’s second year joining the Alzheimer’s Society’s Memory Walk, but 2025 carried added poignancy. Her first walk, held along Lon Las Peris, Llanberis, was in memory of John Jones, originally from Trawsfynydd, and known to many across Gwynedd as “John Plisman” following his years serving as a policeman in Garndolbenmaen and Caernarfon.
“Lon Las Peris was a very special place for John,” Gwenda said. “He loved walking his dogs there, and he kept a boat for fishing on Llyn Padarn. It felt right to remember him in a place that meant so much to him.”
The Llanberis route, approximately one mile long, was accessible to all, with participants enjoying stunning views across the lake. Gwenda was joined by Wynne Elvis to lead the walk.
A second walk, “Iolo’s Walk”, is also being planned in memory of Iolo Williams, with the date to be confirmed, and another opportunity to reflect and raise funds.
For Gwenda, the cause is deeply personal: “Dementia is very close to my heart both personally and professionally, through my work supporting incredible individuals who live with dementia,” she said. “I want to raise as much awareness and funding as I can to support the Alzheimer’s Society’s vital work.”
Supporters can still contribute to her fundraising efforts online via her JustGiving page: justgiving.com/fundraising/takeonyourownmemorywalk2025-gwendahughes
