She said: “I don’t know if it’s a lack of understanding of the condition or a feeling of helplessness, but many people have stopped getting in touch or visiting George and I feel a sense of sadness on his behalf.

“News of his diagnosis, which came following a minor stroke the previous year, was devastating and I found myself in denial and not wanting to tell anyone for a long time.

“I know now that didn’t help and over time, I’ve developed a drive to spread awareness.”

It will be the first time Diane will take part in the memory walk, together with friends who have also experienced the impact of dementia first-hand.

She said: “I hope to bring George to the event with my son but he won’t be able to walk with me. He’s still able to function on his own but his short-term memory is now badly affected.

“I’m looking forward to walking with others in similar situations on the day, all with a shared goal to help make a positive difference.”

Alzheimer’s Society is encouraging people to join Diane on September 3 to help people affected by dementia through some of the hardest and most frightening times.

Community fundraiser Soraya Bowen said: “Too many people are facing dementia alone without adequate support.