The son of beloved British actress Pauline Quirke is preparing for an emotional 140-kilometre trek to raise vital funds for dementia research, following his mother's diagnosis with the condition.
A Son's Tribute
Charlie Quirke, 31, will undertake a five-day, 87-mile walk across significant locations from his mother's life, beginning on December 8. The challenge, named Charlie Quirke's Trek For A Cure, aims to raise money and awareness for Alzheimer's Research UK.
The family publicly revealed the Birds of a Feather star's dementia diagnosis in January 2025, announcing her retirement from acting. Pauline Quirke received her diagnosis in 2021.
Family's Emotional Update
In a heartfelt interview on BBC Breakfast, Pauline's husband Steve Sheen provided an update on her condition. "We don't know what stage she's at," he shared. "She's still funny. She's talking. She's happy."
He expressed the uncertainty faced by families dealing with dementia, questioning: "Is it four years, eight years, 10 years, 12 years, 20, who knows?"
Charlie echoed this frustration, stating: "And that's the problem, no one tells you." Despite the challenges, he emphasised that his mother still recognises her family. "My mum knows exactly who we are. Every time she sees all of us, she smiles, laughs, says 'I love you', says 'hello'."
The Meaningful Journey
The trek will begin in Chigwell, Essex, the setting for the iconic BBC sitcom Birds of a Feather where Pauline Quirke played Sharon Theodopolopodous. The route will weave through Greater London, Surrey and Berkshire, visiting old family homes, studios and other meaningful locations from his mother's life.
Charlie will also visit the training ground of the family's beloved football team, West Ham United, at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in east London. The journey will culminate at his parents' home in Buckinghamshire, where he plans to arrive in time for Christmas.
"I'm really excited to support Alzheimer's Research UK in this way, because it's what my mum wants me to do," Charlie explained. "She's such a selfless person, and she's delighted that I'm doing this to help others. I'm doing it for her, and for every family that has experienced the devastation of dementia."
He admitted the physical challenge ahead, saying: "I've never walked that far before, but what will keep me going is knowing that I'll be reaching places that mean so much to mum. There's so much about her life that I don't know, so I'm excited to learn more about her as I go."
Family's Commitment to Finding a Cure
The Quirke family have become official Ambassadors for Alzheimer's Research UK, using their platform to raise awareness about the condition.
"My mum has always been my best friend, and dementia hasn't changed that," Charlie shared emotionally. "She's happy, content and loving for as much of the day as she can give us. But it's a progressive illness and, currently, there is no cure."
He described the daily challenges, noting: "Every day is different for all of us, and that is no different for mum - that's what makes it so difficult. I wouldn't wish it on anyone. The hardest thing is knowing that there is no cure for dementia. It's not right, and it's not fair."
Hilary Evans-Newton, chief executive of Alzheimer's Research UK, expressed gratitude for the family's support. "We're honoured that Pauline Quirke and her family have become Ambassadors of Alzheimer's Research UK, and delighted that her son, Charlie, has decided to take on this challenge for our cause."
She added: "Like so many, Charlie knows all too well the devastation dementia causes, following his mum's diagnosis. But by going on this trek, he will be helping to bring hope of a cure home to every family affected by dementia."
Pauline Quirke's celebrated career spanned decades, with notable roles in Junket 89, You Must Be Joking! and Shine On Harvey Moon, though she remains best known for her long-running role in Birds of a Feather which first aired in 1989.
Members of the public can support Charlie's trek by texting CHARLIE5, CHARLIE10 or CHARLIE20 to 70255 to donate £5, £10 or £20 respectively. Alternatively, donations can be made online at trek.charliestrek.org.
