Gypsies' Queen launches Alzheimer's Society Big Fat Aintree Memory Walk

She was accompanied by the charity's Bethan Wood who modelled a fabulous frock made especially for the occasion.

Thelma, who shot to fame with her spectacular creations at Nico, her Liverpool shop featured in My Big Fat Gypsy Wedding, said:

'I know a couple of families affected by Alzheimer's and how upsetting it is - it has a huge impact on everyone.

'When a mum or dad with dementia doesn't recognise their own child any more it is really hard to deal with - I just can't imagine what that must be like.

'I hope hundreds of people will come along to the Aintree Memory Walk and take a step to help Alzheimer's Society support people and fight the disease.'

All people talking part in the Memory Walk on Sunday 23 September will be able to see the wedding dress wonder on parade.

Six hundred people attended last year's Aintree Memory Walk - one of the biggest in the country - and people can sign up now for this year at memorywalk.org.uk

Aintree Memory Walk 2012 is being held in partnership with Bupa Care Homes. Together, Alzheimer's Society and Bupa aim to support more people living with dementia through the funds that are raised.

Alzheimer's Society Community Fundraiser Fran D'Arcy, said:

'We had a fabulous day and brilliant support in 2011 - we hope to do even better in 2012.

'Aintree Memory Walk raises funds and awareness to help people with dementia - it's an opportunity for anyone to take part from 8 years to 80 and more besides.

'Two distances are on offer with a choice of one mile or 10km - when someone has dementia it affects the whole family so the walk is designed for all generations.'

As well as being able to sign up memorywalk.org.uk people without access to a computer who would like to register to take part can call 0870 4170 192