FAMILY and friends of a detective superintendent from Blackwood have donated £1,400 to the Alzheimer’s Society in tribute to "an amazing man".

Former South Wales Police detective superintendent of 30 years, Ron Davies, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in May 2013, and although the diagnosis was devastating and ultimately fatal, he quickly embraced the activities and support which Alzheimer’s Society offered him.

His mantra was "there’s no point fighting Alzheimer’s, just accept it and go with it", said his daughter Cheryl Kitt.

Mr Davies and his wife of 59 years, Dorothy, made lasting friendships at the local groups with the ex-cop always ready to offer his knowledge from years of experience in the force.

His daughter, Cheryl, said: "My father would have been extremely proud that his friends and family had raised such an amazing amount for the charity which had offered both himself and mum a lifeline after his diagnosis.

"Alzheimer’s Society services are invaluable for many vulnerable people and their carers who often feel very alone and without support.

"Groups offer friendship and support for both the person and particularly their carers who very often have no one to turn to themselves."

Carolyn Holt, community fundraiser for Alzheimer’s Society in Gwent, said: "We are extremely grateful to Ron’s family and friends for remembering him with such generosity and helping Alzheimer's Society raise vital funds. As a charity, we rely on the generosity of our supporters to help us support people to live well with dementia today and fund research to find a cure for tomorrow."