Race Against Dementia was founded by three-time Formula One World Champion Sir Jackie Stewart OBE, following his wife Lady Stewart’s dementia diagnosis. The charity actively seeks out young scientists with innovative research proposals, supporting efforts to tackle new approaches to better understanding, treatment, and prevention of the diseases underlying dementia.
The ball, which took place on the 4th of November, raised over £150,000 in aid of RAD’s cutting-edge research. A number of other distinguished guests joined Sir Jackie at the event, including fellow racing legends David Coulthard MBE and Allan McNish, as well as Andy Cameron MBE, Mark Stewart, and Rona MacKay MSP.
Sir Jackie Stewart OBE said: “Dementia is an urgent and accelerating problem that will take ingenuity and ambition to solve. By ensuring that the most promising and groundbreaking research gets the funding it needs, we can put ourselves in pole position to find a cure. David has been a wonderful supporter of Race Against Dementia for many years and I’m grateful for everything he has done.”
Optical Express and companies owned and controlled by our founder David Moulsdale have supported Sir Jackie Stewart OBE and Race Against Dementia since 2019, organising high-visibility fundraising activities to support their crucial work.
David Moulsdale said: “Dementia is a global crisis and without a cure, one in three people born today will develop the disease. Like Sir Jackie, I too have personal experience of how dementia can devastate a family and together, we are taking action. I’m very proud that we were again able to support his extraordinary drive in curing this horrific disease.”
The gala ball also marked the official opening of the new headquarters of the Moulsdale Foundation, which was established by Optical Express founder and CEO David Moulsdale. The evening saw Sir Jackie, Allan McNish, David Coulthard, Mark Stewart and David Moulsdale unveil a plaque at the charity venue to commemorate the occasion.
The Foundation’s new facility will not only act as its headquarters, but the 2,000 capacity events venue will also be made available free of charge to other recognised charities. In 2024 the Foundation is planning to host events for up to 10 charities with all proceeds from table sales and other fundraising going directly to the charity. It is estimated that the new venue could save the charity sector in Scotland over £500,000 per year.
Registered charities can now apply to hold their fundraising event at the new venue by completing an application form on the Moulsdale Foundation website.