This is England’s, Vicky McClure launches Nottingham Memory Walk

The walk will take place there on Sunday 23 September.

Memory Walk is Alzheimer's Society's flagship fundraising event. Nottingham-born Vicky, who was awarded a BAFTA for best actress in 2011, is supporting Memory Walk for the second year running. She said;

'I'm delighted to come and support Memory Walk today.  I attended the Nottingham Memory Walk last year and it was a wonderful experience. Dementia touches so many of us in one way or another, I would encourage everyone to come on 23 September and help raise money for the vital services which the Alzheimer's Society runs in and around Nottingham.'

There are over 56,600 people living with dementia in the East Midlands and this is expected to rise to almost 76,100 by 2021.

Alzheimer's Society spokesperson, Helen Byrne said:

'We're so grateful to Vicky for supporting Memory Walk. It's a fantastic way to spend a Sunday. From a four year-old to his 80 year-old gran and her dog, Memory Walk sees whole families coming together to fight dementia. Exciting entertainment and refreshments will be available throughout the day to make it a day to remember for everyone who takes part.

'Thanks to the support of Bupa Care Homes, Memory Walk is able to support more people living with funds that are raised.'

Memory Walk 2012 is being held in partnership with Bupa Care Homes. This year, Alzheimer's Society is encouraging people to go the extra mile and take part in Bupa's 'Memory Mile' at the end of the walk to raise a further £5 to support people with dementia.

Siobhan Drane from Bupa Care Homes attended the launch. She said:

'Many people have heard of dementia but know very little about it, until it touches their lives.   When that happens, it can be upsetting, particularly if it's a loved one. Our care home staff will be getting behind the Memory Walk in September and encouraging residents' families, who have been personally affected by dementia, to get walking to raise valuable funds.

The Nottingham Memory Walk takes place on Sunday 23 September on the Big Track, starting at Victoria Embankment. With a choice of a short 1 mile or long 10 mile walk, participants will stroll along the River Trent and canal. The beautiful car-free route connects lots of interesting and historical sites around Nottingham city and plenty of wildlife can be spotted along the way.

To register for Memory Walk visit memorywalk.org.uk