THE salty sea air and beaches of Blackpool have drawn generations of Boltonians to its sandy shores for generations.

Now the happy holiday memories of yesteryear have inspired a challenge to bolster a big Bolton campaign.

Our Donate £1 for Dementia is looking for plucky challengers to take on an overnight 33 mile walk from Blackpool to Bolton in September to help raise funds for the campaign.

The appeal launched last June in partnership with Bolton NHS Charitable Fund, aims to raise £200,000 to pay for dementia-friendly facilities at the Royal Bolton Hospital.

Blackpool has been a beloved destination for holidaying Boltonians throughout the 19th and 20th century.

Hundreds used to flock to its shores during Bolton Holidays, also known as wakes weeks, when industry came to a halt and the schools would close for two weeks of holiday.

For this reason the seaside resort has been chosen as an apt location to start off the walk, said charitable fundraiser Andy Lee.

He said: "All the northern towns would down tools for two weeks at different times in the summer and head to places like Blackpool.

"It is that generation know who are the most likely to be living with dementia and we hope people will take part in the walk to honour them.

"We have coaches on to take people to Blackpool for the start of the walk. We have 30 people on board so far but the more people the merrier!"

The far-from leisurely challenge is open for anybody to take part.

Walkers can chose to complete the full journey — which is planned at around 33 miles — or do five mile sections.

The walk will start at Blackpool's promenade at 10pm on September 10 with walkers travelling through the night before arriving at Royal Bolton Hospital on Sunday at noon.

In an added twist, challengers will bring with them the two large Donate £1 for Dementia coins which will be transported by the group on a trolley.

Support vehicles, refreshments and drink stops have been arranged for along the route, with lunch awaiting at the hospital.

To find out more visit http://www.boltonft.nhs.uk/get-involved/charitable-giving/blackpool-to-bolton-sponsored-walk-2016/.

To sign up for the walk contact Andy Lee on 01204 390356, or email andy.lee@boltonft.nhs.uk.

Families, schools, businesses and groups across Bolton are being urged to donate at least £1 to the appeal.

To donate to the campaign go to www.boltonft.nhs.uk/get-involved/charitable-giving/ or send a cheque, made out to Bolton NHS Charitable Fund, to Charitable Funds Department, Dowling House, Royal Bolton Hospital, Minerva Road, Bolton, BL4 0JR.