Ilkey singer records musical tribute to grandmother (From Ilkley Gazette)

Rupert Stroud releases charity single

9:00am Monday 30th April 2012 in Local news

A singer is hoping to boost funds for an Alzheimer’s charity with a new single in tribute to his grandmother.

Rupert Stroud, who lives in Ilkley, releases the song, Always, today in memory of Eileen, who died in 2010 aged 87, after a long battle with Alzheimer's disease.

The 25-year-old has received backing from his MP for the single, which will see all profits from the release go to Alzheimer’s Research UK And he says the song is just the start of a campaign to raise as much money as possible for the charity.

“My grandma was one of the sweetest souls you could ever meet – we were very close,” he said.

“Although she was tiny, she was incredibly strong and cared for my grandad for years as he had severe rheumatoid arthritis.

“She was devastated when he died and seemed to lose her spark for life. A few years later Alzheimer’s crept on and her memories seemed frozen inside her. It opened our eyes to the desperate lack of funding for research into this cruel disease.

“When she was younger, Grandma enjoyed singing and could have gone on to be a professional dancer if circumstances were different.

“But for the last few years of her life she needed 24-hour care. She didn’t recognise any of us and couldn’t speak – it was heartbreaking. She’d be proud to know this song is a tribute to her and that it will raise money for the new treatments so desperately needed for Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.”

Apart from the song, Mr Stroud is planning several money-spinning events.

“My single is just the start of my plans to raise money and awareness for Alzheimer’s Research UK,” he said..

“I’m lining up a series of music events, starting with a concert at the Ilkley Playhouse on June 30.

“I want to do my bit to help so that other people don’t have to suffer like my wonderful grandma.”

Kris Hopkins, MP for Keighley, praised Mr Stroud’s fundraising efforts.

“Rupert’s commitment to raising money for Alzheimer’s Research UK is inspiring and will give hope to the increasing number of people living with this devastating disease,” he said.

“He is a talented musician and his achievements are the result of hard work and dedication. I wish him continued success with his music career and his fundraising efforts.”

Always will be available online from Monday at rupertstroudforaruk.com with a minimum donation to Alzheimer’s Research UK of £2 and no donation limit.