Joe Grant, 80, fervently believes dementia care in the UK is under-funded – particularly compared to the amounts spent on cancer and heart disease.

And with an increasingly elderly population, Mr Grant fears the problem needs to be addressed urgently.

He has been inspired by the plight of his wife Blanche, 76, who suffers from Alzheimer's disease.

The game-for-a-laugh pensioner even grew a Santa Claus beard in the run-up to Christmas to boost the coffers of the Alzheimer's Society.

And today he thanked to all those who have helped him raise almost £1,000 in sponsorship.

Mr Grant, of Compton Avenue, South Shields, said: "I was totally overwhelmed by the generosity of the people of South Tyneside. I can't thank them enough for their support.

"There are really too many people and organisations to thank. I even had two anonymous £50 donations, people who gave without wanting any recognition."

Mr Grant wants the money he raised by shaving off his beard to be spent on providing training for those working with people with dementia.

He added: "The priority is to address the gap in services. When I'm out and about in South Shields, I receive support from so many people. That support is an inspiration to me."

But Mr Grant said he was relieved that he had shaved off his beard.

He added: "It was starting to itch, but the irritation was more than worth it in the end."