Hugo is excited. He has not been out for a walk yet and is joining the on-the-go interview with his owner, the Aston Villa forward Kirsty Hanson. We are strolling around the park near the 26-year-old’s house. Hugo may be bouncing, and greeting as many dogs as he can, but our starting topic is less joyful. I have joined Hanson on a particularly crisp day in the Midlands as she takes part in Dementia UK’s Walk 1k a Day in February challenge. Hanson’s reason for taking part in the campaign was explained in three words on social media as she promoted her participation: “For my Gran.”
“My granny was diagnosed in 2022,” says Hanson, as we veer off a path and on to the grass. “I thought it was such a good issue to campaign for. I also thought it would be good for my family.
