Vicky McClure steps out to fight dementia at Nottingham Memory Walk

Vicky set walkers off to raise money for local Alzheimer's Society services. Over 350 people stepped out to take part in the event and more than £20,000 is estimated to have been raised to help local people with dementia and their carers.

Participants had a choice of a one mile or a ten mile route, which led them along the River Trent and canal, connecting lots of historical sites around Nottingham city.

This was Vicky's second time taking part in the Nottingham Memory Walk. This year her mother, sister and 5-year-old newphew came along with her and joined in the fun. Vicky said:

'I am so pleased I took part in Memory Walk again this year. There was a great turn out today and a brilliant atmosphere. There was also lots of entertainment on offer- something for the whole family to enjoy. Dementia is a condition which touches so many of us and today, people from across Nottingham came together and fought it. I want everyone to come and join me again next year as I will definitely be back!'

Tracy Ann Doherty (41) took part in ten mile walk for her brother, Tony who is 56 and was diagnosed with vascular dementia a year and a half ago.

Tracy Ann said:

'I'm quite active anyway but was still apprehensive about completing the full ten miles as it's been a while since I've walked that far.  I was walking for friends, and friends with parents who have died but mainly for my brother who has vascular dementia.

'The walk route today was beautiful and it was nice to be greated by everyone when we came through the finish line. Vicky McClure is my favourite actress and I was so excited when I got to meet her in person- she is lovely!'

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

Today, participants were encouraged 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.

Rowan Groom, an administrator at Bupa's Alexandra Nursing Home , Nottingham, who attended the event said:

'Our staff work closely with those living with dementia and their families, so we know how upsetting it can be. That's why we've been encouraging our staff, residents' friends and families to support the walk so we can raise awareness of dementia, and raise additional funds through the Bupa Memory Mile. It's great to see so many of them supporting the event today.'

Alzheimer's Society's Community Fundraiser for the East Midlands, Hayley Child said:

'Memory Walk went fantastically well and we are all really pleased. I am incredibly grateful to Vicky McClure for supporting us for the second year running, to my team of volunteers who have worked so hard to make the day possible and to everyone who came and got involved. I would encourage everyone to sign up again next year so that we can raise even more money to support people with dementia and their carers.'