Natalie Cassidy is "so honoured" to be running the London Marathon for Dame Barbara Windsor.
The ‘EastEnders’ star – who plays Sonia Fowler on the BBC One soap – is one of several Walford residents who have formed a running team, Barbara’s Revolutionaries, who are aiming to raise £100,000 by taking on the 26.2-mile race in support of the former ‘Enders’ actress, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2014.
Natalie wrote on Twitter: "I am so honoured to be one of Barbara’s revolutionaries. Thinking of the times I have shared with her will keep me running."
The 35-year-old actress encouraged fans and viewers to donate "whatever you can" to Dementia Revolution, a year-long campaign from Alzheimer’s Society and Alzheimer’s Research UK, to help Barbara and similar sufferers.
She added: "For our Dame and every other person coping and living with this heartbreaking disease-please, donate whatever you can. (sic)"
At the time of writing, the team have already raised more than £29,000 of their £100,000 target.
Barbara’s husband Scott Mitchell will head up the team, which also features Adam Woodyatt (Ian Beale), Jake Wood (Max Branning), Tanya Franks (Rainie Branning), Emma Barton (Honey Mitchell), Jamie Borthwick (Jay Brown), Jane Slaughter (Tracey the barmaid) and Kellie Shirley, who previously played Carly Wicks.
Scott recently admitted it is "heart-breaking" watching Barbara – who has been living with dementia for nearly five years – struggle on a daily basis.
He said: "Dementia can, and does, have a profound effect on daily life.
"It is heart-breaking for family and friends to watch a loved one struggle with day-to-day life and be slowly stripped of their memories.
"The same goes for the person living with dementia, who at times can feel confused, disorientated, frustrated and afraid. Sadly it has been no exception for Barbara."
Jake tweeted: "So proud to be supporting dementia revolution with Barbara’s husband Scott & the team from Eastenders (sic)"
Natalie Cassidy ‘honoured’ to be running Marathon for Barbara Windsor
