Dame Barbara Windsor, 82, sent a sweet message to Virgin Radio DJ Chris Evans this afternoon as he boarded a plane at Stansted Airport to take part in the Amsterdam Marathon.
The former EastEnders actress, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2014, sent her message of support to the 53-year-old presenter and 50 generous listeners, who have raised over £400,000 for Dementia Revolution.
Back in August, a live charity auction took place on Chris Evans’ Virgin Radio breakfast show with Sky offering VIP places in the race.
On the private jet today, the participants were joined by Virgin Radio’s Kate Lawler, 39, EastEnders actress Tanya Franks, 52, and Barbara’s husband Scott Mitchell, 56.
In her surprise message to the runners, the Albert Square legend said: “Hello darlings, Barbara Windsor here. Thank you all for donating so much money to Dementia Revolution.
“Your generosity will support vital research that will give hope to people living with the condition.”
Explaining more about the condition, she continued: “Dementia is the biggest health threat facing society. There are nearly one million people living with the condition in the UK and another person is diagnosed every three minutes.”
She added: “I may not be with you in person but I will be with you in spirit every step of the way. Good luck and god bless you.”
World champion marathon runner Paula Radcliffe, 45, also sent a good luck message to the runners.
The three-times London Marathon winner said: “Hello everyone, just to wish you all running in Amsterdam this weekend, be it the 8km, half marathon or the whole marathon, the very best of luck.
“You have raised a phenomenal amount of money to make a huge difference to Dementia Revolution. So congratulations on that. Enjoy the atmosphere, have a good time, and smash those PBs.”
