A stroll in a Cumbrian park is set to raise vital funds to help those who suffer from dementia.

On today’s World Alzheimer’s Day, it has been revealed that 1,000 people from across the county will be taking part in the event in Carlisle in less than two weeks time.

The Memory Walk in Carlisle is one of 31 such events taking place across the UK in aid of the Alzheimer’s Society.

Organisers hope that the walks will help break down the stigma of the devastating disease.

Last month the world learned about the death of actor Gene Wilder as a result of complications from Alzheimer’s disease.

He had lived with the condition for a number of years but kept it secret from fans.

Fellow actor Robin Williams also suffered from dementia, his widow revealed, before his death in 2014.

A recent survey has also revealed that dementia is the most feared condition among people over the age of 55.

It overtakes cancer and heart disease.

This year’s Memory Walk in Carlisle is set to be the best in the city to date.

In 2014 around 50 people took part and raised £5,500.

Meanwhile, 12 months ago that figure increased dramatically and 300 walkers took part.

Last year’s event was started by city councillor and then deputy mayor Colin Stothard, whose late brother suffered suffered from the condition.

Bitts Park and neighbouring Rickerby Park are the once again picturesque settings for this year’s local Memory Walk.

Time is running out to sign up and take part.

The closing date for registering is Thursday next week (September 29).

There are two routes for people to choose from.

The first is a 1.5km distance which is wheelchair and pushchair friendly and stays in Bitts Park.

The other is a 6km route which ventures into neighbouring Rickerby Park alongside the River Eden. It contains rough grassy paths, steps and gravel and isn’t suitable for wheelchairs. It is also subject to change.

Organisers of the Memory Walk series taking place across the country in September and October hope to have over 100,000 walking and aim to raise a more than £6.4 million.

To register to take part in the Cumbrian event on October 1, visit www.memorywalk.org.uk/participate/Carlisle .

Further information about Memory Walks is available at www.memorywalk.org.uk .