A HARTFORD man who has been diagnosed with the early onset of dementia is getting ready to participate in the Cheshire Memory Walk on Saturday, October 7.

Barry Monks, 75, and wife Sandra 72, are urging others to unite against dementia by getting involved in the walk organised by the Alzheimer’s Society’s.

The walk will be held in the grounds of Cholmondeley Castle, Malpas, where the event will get underway with the help of actor and Coronation Street star Richard Hawley.

Barry was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in July this year after having memory loss for the previous 18 months.

Sandra said: “Barry is a well-educated and intelligent man and held down a very responsible position as a mechanical engineer until 18 months ago.

“When he started to have problems with short term memory and problem solving when doing simple DIY tasks and at times was withdrawn.

“I knew something was not right. His GP hadn’t picked up on anything but his memory problems were highlighted in there-op checks before he had heart surgery in July 2016.

“It was very hard to receive the diagnosis but now we have it we’re just getting on with it and working through it. He has started on a half dose of his medication and we’re waiting to see how he gets on.Hopefully this will slow the progression of the dementia down.

“We are both looking forward to taking on the walk not only so we can raise money for Alzheimer’s Society but also so we can raise awareness of the condition. We are urging others to join us and sign up for the walk now.”

Richard Hawley added: “I have been involved with the memory walks for the last couple of years now after my father died withdementia.

“The atmosphere of these walks is immense. It’s so inspiring to see thousands of people, including families and friends, walking together to unite against dementia. It’s a real privilege to be taking part in the walk this year.”