Naomi Carey and Janet Montgomery, from Randalstown, directors of Hutchinson Homes, are renowned charity champions for the Society and have made a huge difference to their local branch.

Hutchinson Homes has been serving the community in County Antrim since 1990 and is a professional family run business currently featuring four care facilities specialising in the care of the elderly.

In the true spirit of the business, Naomi and Janet recently completed the Society's first Vietnam to Cambodia bike ride Challenge.

Back in their native Antrim, the duo admitted that although the ride was a real cultural experience of a life time, it was tougher than expected given the rough terrain that had to be covered in temperatures touching 40C.

The last 50kms were particularly difficult but the determination of Naomi and Janet drove them on to complete the challenge and raise around £10,000.

And they told The Times that the money raised during the challenge together with cash amounted through a variety of other fund raising activities as well as personal donations, will go directly to the work of the Alzheimer's Society in the Antrim/Ballymena area.

They said: "We understand the impact dementia has on the whole family and that it currently affects over 16,000 people in Northern Ireland - a figure set to rise significantly over the coming years.

"We wanted to demonstrate out commitment to our local community and the work of the Alzheimer's Society and were delighted to be able to raise this amount of money".

The ladies have extended thanks to everyone who supported them in their efforts, particularly, Antrim Borough Council, Antrim Rotary Club, Antrim Lions Club and, not least, the generous support of all their family and friends.

Naomi and Janet pointed out that: 'The Alzheimer's Society champions and campaigns for the rights of people living with dementia and those who care for them.

'The impact of dementia can be devastating on individuals and those around them. It is more than being forgetful; it robs people of their lives'.