Walk this way

The resort songbird will take part in a Memory Walk in Blackpool on October 8, to raise money for the Alzheimer’s Society. She is also holding a ball on October 28 for the charity.

Anne, who rose to fame in the 70s singing with her sisters as The Nolans, is walking in memory of her mum, who had dementia.

Anne said: “I was asked by the Alzheimer’s Society if I would officially start the walk and perhaps man a stall, and I said absolutely, but then thought ‘why don’t I take part in the walk too.’ My daughter Alex is going to walk it with me. The last fundraising walk I did was a night-time walk, in London, with my sisters, for breast cancer research. I lost two of my toenails!

“The Alzheimer’s Society is a cause really close to my heart, because of my experiences with my mum.

“Dementia is a Cinderella charity I feel, it doesn’t have a high profile. I don’t think people understand it or know what it’s like unless they have some experience with it themselves.

“Going through it with my mum was absolutely horrendous, it’s like you’ve already lost that person before they’ve gone.”

Those taking part in the Memory Walk can choose from a 2.5km or 7.5km route. Both will start at 11am from the Comedy Carpet, on the Promenade’s Tower Headland. The shorter route will see walkers turn back at Manchester Square tram stop and the longer route will continue on to the mirror-ball before turning back.

Sue Swire, community fundraiser from The Alzheimer’s Society, said: “Dementia is set to be the 21st century’s biggest killer. I am delighted Blackpool has been selected as a new destination for our flagship memory walk this year. The atmosphere will be amazing whatever the weather and together we will help people live well with dementia.

“We also rely on the support of volunteers to make these walks happen. There are so many ways you can get involved – from marshalling to cheering on walkers at the finish line and presenting them with their medals.” Visit memorywalk.org.uk