Stephanie Beacham stars in film supporting dementia research

Grey Matter is a coming of age story that sees Alzheimer's through the eyes of a teenager

A new partnership between the film star Stephanie Beacham and a small Bristol-based charity could boost research into Alzheimer's and dementia.

BRACE Alzheimer's Research has released a film called Grey Matter at the Scott Cinema in Westbury Park, Bristol.

The small charity funds Alzheimer's and dementia research across the West country.

Actress Stephanie Beacham plays the role of a woman named Peg who lives with Alzheimer's.

"Having witnessed my father's descent into Alzheimer's, this film is very personal to me," said Ms Beacham, who is known for her roles in Dynasty, the Colbys and Bad Girls.

"It's one in two of us who will be affected by dementia, and [in 2022] it was the leading fatal disease in the UK over anything else.

"We need to change that, and that can only be done through more research."

Actress Stephanie Beacham plays a woman named Peg who is diagnosed with an aggressive form of Alzheimer's

Grey Matter explores the impact that dementia and mental health can have on families.

It is seen through the eyes predominantly of teenager Chloe, played by Eloise Smith, who becomes a stay-at-home carer for her grandmother Peg.

Grey Matter was filmed in the bright and colourful seaside town of Southwold in Sussex.

"I wanted it to have a very colourful palette because dementia is emotional," said director Arabella Burfitt-Dons.

"But really, the film is about joy. It's about capturing beautiful moments with your loved ones and creating lasting memories," she added.

Chloe is forced to become a teenage stay-at-home carer for her grandmother

Chris Williams, CEO of BRACE Dementia Research said he hopes the film will raise awareness of the Alzheimer, with a view to eventually find a cure.

"As a charity we've had really significant breakthroughs over the last few years. I really believe that if we work collaborate, we can find a cure," he said.

The film screened at the Scott Cinema in Westbury Park on Tuesday 27 to Thursday 29 February. More screenings will become available at a later date.