FOOTBALL rivals will unite against dementia for a special five-a-side tournament in Bishop Auckland next month.

Teams from across County Durham are invited to take part in the one-day event on May 15 at St John’s School and Sixth Form College.

It is organised by Alzheimer’s Society in partnership with County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service to coincide with Dementia Awareness Week.

Teams will play on the college’s new 3G pitch, opened last year by Sunderland striker Duncan Watmore.

And the club’s Foundation of Light has donated five match tickets for next season as a prize for the winning team.

During Dementia Awareness Week, Alzheimer’s Society is asking people to come together to unite against dementia, forgetting their differences to help find a cure, improve care, and increase understanding.

It’s estimated that 6,818 people are living with dementia in County Durham. In the North-East as a whole there are 35,000 people with the condition and nationwide the figure is 850,000.

Andrew Ball, Operations Manager for Alzheimer’s Society in Chester-le-Street and Durham, said: “We’re calling on people in Bishop Auckland and beyond to show their support during Dementia Awareness Week.

“Dementia doesn’t care who you are; it could affect us all. It’s set to be the 21st century’s biggest killer, with someone developing it every three minutes, and so many people are facing it alone.

“People with dementia often feel – and are – misunderstood, marginalised and isolated but with the right support and understanding they can continue to live fulfilling lives and make a contribution to their communities.

“Five-a-side teams in the region can do their bit by uniting with us on May 15 to raise awareness of dementia whilst participating in what I’m sure will be a fantastic event.”

Teams wishing to participate in the tournament should contact Rowena Carr (Dementia Support Worker) on 07872 867 257 or email rowena.carr@alzheimers.org.uk by Friday 12 May.

There is no fee to but optional donations can be made on the day.