DEMENTIA won't stop Hereford runner Malcolm Brookes completing his 131st race.

The 78-year-old runner is taking on the gruelling London Marathon this Sunday in aid of Dementia Revolution.

Four years ago, he completed his 100th marathon aged 74, the oldest anyone has been on joining the ‘UK 100 Marathon Club’.

Less than six months later, retired Methodist Minister Malcolm was diagnosed with vascular dementia, but determined not to let dementia slow him down, Malcolm has run another 15 marathons since then.

Malcolm’s fundraising for Dementia Revolution will help to fund dementia research that will change lives.

"Running marathons cheers me up. After about two miles, a big grin steals across my face," Malcolm said.

"My mantra is all positive - I can, I will, I am - particularly near the end of a race. For the last six miles, it’s sheer determination."

Malcolm said he started running marathons "almost by accident," running his first whilst working in Jersey and his second 22 years later during a family visit to Portland, Oregon.

Much to his amazement, he was only seven minutes slower than before and the bug began to take hold.

Malcolm soon signed up for the 7x7x7 Challenge – seven marathons in seven locations in seven months.

"It was really tough. I didn’t know what I’d let myself in for, but after that, I was really hooked."

Malcolm is determined to keep active despite the impact of his dementia.

"Dementia has slowed me down. My memory is not as good as it was. I have a laugh at myself – if I’m struggling to find a word I just make up my own one.

"After I was diagnosed, the consultant said carry on running and eat well. I’ve never had to pull out of a marathon because of dementia. I will carry on for as long as I can do it.

"If I’m running for charity, I’m helping someone else as well."

To make a donation to Malcolm's fundraiser, visit his Virgin Money Giving page here or for more information visit Dementia Revolution here.