MARLEY the pit pony will lead the procession at a museum’s Memory Walk.

The Shetland Pony will take part in the event at Beamish Museum on Friday when more than 300 walkers will raise funds for Alzheimer’s Society, the UK’s leading dementia charity.

Owner Lisa Walker, of Mini Pony Hire, says: “He comes to Beamish quite often to play the role of a pit pony and people love him.”

“I just thought it would be a lovely idea to bring him along to Memory Walk because I like to do what I can to help people with dementia.”

Among the walkers at the event will be Kevan Jones, North Durham MP, and his dog Biff.

Singer Sarah Dee will also attend. Dee’s late grandfather, former Darlington footballer Ralph Phillips, had suffered with dementia.

Rhiannon Hiles, Beamish’s Deputy Director, said: “Beamish is proud to have nearly 350 Dementia Friends among staff and volunteers and we host regular sessions at out Orchard Cottage for people living with dementia and their families and carers.”

She added: “We’re really looking forward to this year’s Memory Walk and would encourage everyone to sign up and come along!”

To register for Memory Walk at Beamish, email asvolsdurham@yahoo.com.