The numbers of people suffering with dementia is set to soar in Bradford, according to statistics revealed today by the Alzheimer's Society.

Experts have warned of an expected 36 per cent rise in the numbers of dementia cases across the county over the next 15 years, resulting in 80,000 living with the illness by 2021.

One couple who know first-hand the devastating affect the illness can have on lives are George and Enid Russell, of Otley Road, Shipley.

Mrs Russell, 72, was diagnosed with Alzheimer's 11 years ago and her husband is finding it increasingly difficult to care for his wife as he himself has health problems and suffers from depression.

Mr Russell said the first sign something was wrong was when his wife would not drive to see him in hospital as he recovered from an operation, preferring to take a bus.

He said: "She started putting things in the wrong place and as she has always been so organised, I knew something wasn't right.

"She was diagnosed with Alzheimer's and we just didn't know what to do, we didn't have a clue."

The couple, who celebrated their golden wedding anniversary last year, have been helped by the Bradford branch of the Alzheimer's Society. Mrs Russell is cared for three days a week at a home in Shipley, and she also takes anti-dementia drugs, which, Mr Russell says, have allowed the couple extra time together.

He added: "She now can't read or tell the time. The sad part I felt has gone, I had to let it go because it was eating away at me.

"It is hard, I am not feeling sorry for myself, but it is seven days a week, 24 hours a day. I have always said I will keep Enid at home as long as I possibly can, but she is getting worse."

Maggie Williams, north region director of the Alzheimer's Society said: "Dementia is set to dramatically increase in Yorkshire, yet it is unclear how our health and social services plan to deal with it. The report shows the scale of dementia in the north and predicts the number of people will grow by more than 20,000 by 2021.

"Dementia must become a local and national priority. We need leadership from local authorities and services to develop plans to respond to the challenge."

The Alzheimer's Society Dementia Helpline number is 0845 300 0336.