Actress Sian Reeves supporting Alzheimer's Society by running the Bupa Great North Run

This is an incredible challenge for Sian who only two years ago  had a life-threatening fall. Sian is about to return to our screens in a new BBC One drama, Hope Springs, which airs on Sunday 7 June.

Sian is running the Bupa Great North Run to raise awareness of dementia. Sian said,

'It's just so important. 1 in 3 people over the age of 65 can be affected by dementia. People don't seem to recognise it as a proper illness.'

Sian also issued a personal plea,

'I need a trainer - is there anybody out there who can help?'

Sian is also starring with former Chariots of Fire actor, Nigel Havers, in BBC Three's comedy, Lunch Monkeys and had an important message for him.

'Nigel, I challenge you to do the run with me on 20 September.'

Help us continue the fight against dementia by getting involved -
find out  how you can join the Bupa Great North Run 2009