Corrie couple to join 700 on Manchester Memory Walk

High profile support - including from broadcaster and poet Ian Macmillan - is helping draw attention to the event in the city's Heaton Park making it the biggest among the charity's walks all over the country.

So far the number of people registering to take part in the fundraiser, which starts at 11am, is approaching triple the total for last year and even more can sign up on the day with a choice of one mile or 10km distances.

Corrie's Judy and Tony - Lesley and fireman Paul Kershaw in the soap - appeared together in a challenging and dramatic story line in which she played his wife living with Alzheimer's.

Judy, who is tackling the longer route, said:

'I'm looking forward to chatting to people on the way and I hope even more will come out and do the walk come rain or shine. Let's make it 1,000!

'The people I've met with dementia, carers and families have been inspirational. It's tragic to have to watch someone disappear in front of your eyes, to see the loss of personality.

'The more money we can raise to help the Alzheimer's Society fund research and services for carers and people living with dementia, the better.'

Judy visited Alzheimer's Society dementia cafes and met carers and people living with the condition while preparing for her role as Lesley.

Tony Hirst, also a strong Alzheimer's Society supporter, said:

'Since I took on the part I have learnt so much more about dementia and how it affects not just the person with the condition but has an impact on the whole family.

'I am really enjoying the opportunity to help raise awareness about this devastating condition and I'm delighted to be asked to support this year's Manchester Memory Walk.

'Memory Walk is a fantastic opportunity to raise vital funds for services in Manchester and the surrounding areas as well as great day out for all of the family. I'd urge to everyone to show their support and come along on Sunday.

'Hope to see you there!'

As well as being able to sign up on the day, people can find out more by going to memorywalk.org.uk