A man determined to “stop dementia in its tracks” has been made a champion of a charity which provides support to those diagnosed with the condition.

Matt Burke, who lives in Harrow-on-the-Hill, has raised thousands of pounds for Alzheimer’s Research UK over the last few years.

The 28-year-old is one of 28 champions across England who have gone the extra mile to help the charity in its mission to defeat the “dreadful” disease.

He moved to Harrow two years ago after completing his PhD at Newcastle University, after winning a scholarship from Alzheimer’s Research UK.

He said: “I feel strongly that dementia is the biggest medical issue we will face in the coming years.

“There are currently no treatments to stop it in its tracks and we have to confront it head on through research.

“I want to do everything I can to raise money and awareness to help Alzheimer’s Research UK defeat this dreadful condition.”

Mr Burke has taken part in gruelling 100km bike rides and set up Alzheimer’s Research UK London supporter group to bring like-minded people together.

He is now a sales engineer with medical firm Hamamatsu Photonics.

Miranda Johnson, head of corporate and community partnerships at Alzheimer’s Research UK, said: “We are delighted to make Matt a Champion of Alzheimer’s Research UK – he is unwavering in his support of the charity and truly deserves this honour.

“In addition to raising thousands of pounds for our pioneering research, he has brought other members of the public together to form a Supporter Group in London.”