Actor’s Son to Trek 140km for Dementia Research in Tribute to Mother
The son of celebrated actress Pauline Quirke MBE has announced plans for an ambitious five-day fundraising trek covering 140 kilometres across five counties in support of Alzheimer’s Research UK.
Charlie Quirke will undertake the challenging winter journey from 8 to 12 December, potentially facing harsh weather conditions as he walks to raise both funds and awareness for dementia research. The trek comes after his family revealed earlier this year that Pauline, best known for her role as Sharon Theodopolopodous in the beloved sitcom Birds of a Feather, is living with dementia and has retired from acting.
Following his mother’s diagnosis in 2021, the family has become increasingly involved with Alzheimer’s Research UK, recently taking on roles as Ambassadors for the charity. For Charlie, the trek represents more than just a physical challenge—it is a deeply personal journey through his mother’s remarkable life and career.
“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 I know she’ll be delighted that I’m doing this to help others.”
The route has been carefully planned to honour Pauline’s career and family life. Charlie will begin his trek on Monday 8 December in Chigwell, Essex—the setting for Birds of a Feather—before making his way through London and beyond. The journey will include stops at former family homes, television studios, and the West Ham training ground, reflecting the family’s longstanding support for the football club.
“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,” Charlie said. “There’s so much about her life that I don’t know, so I’m excited to learn more about her as I go.”
Charlie, who is also an actor and appeared alongside his mother in Birds of a Feather, will be joined at various points along the route by friends, family members, and familiar faces from the entertainment industry whose lives Pauline has touched throughout her distinguished career.
Speaking candidly about his mother’s condition, Charlie addressed the stark reality facing families affected by dementia. “It’s not right, and it’s not fair. And it’s why, as a family, we wanted to do our bit,” he said. “Research is the only thing that will give families a light at the end of the tunnel.”
Despite the challenges, Charlie finds comfort in his mother’s present contentment. “Mum is happy, content and loving for as much of the day as she can give us,” he shared.
The trek will conclude on Friday 12 December at the family home in Buckinghamshire, where Charlie plans to spend Christmas with his mother and family. “I’ll carry all mum’s memories with me as I reach home for Christmas,” he said.
Hilary Evans-Newton, chief executive of Alzheimer’s Research UK, expressed the charity’s 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 said.
“Like so many, Charlie knows all too well the devastation dementia causes, following his mum’s diagnosis. But by going on this gruelling trek, he will be helping to bring hope of a cure home to every family affected by dementia. We wish Charlie the best of luck and we can’t wait to follow his journey.”
Please support Charlie Quirke’s Trek For A Cure and donate by texting ‘CHARLIE5’, ‘CHARLIE10’ or ‘CHARLIE20’ to 70255. Alternatively, donate online at trek.charliestrek.org
