Key Highlights
- Charlie Quirke plans a five-day trek to raise funds for Alzheimer’s Research UK.
- The trek will span 140km across five counties and take place from December 8-12, 2025.
- This event marks the family’s first fundraising effort since Pauline Quirke’s diagnosis with dementia in 2021.
- Pauline Quirke MBE is known for her role in the hit comedy sitcom Birds of a Feather.
Fundraising Trek to Support Alzheimer’s Research UK
Charlie Quirke, the son of renowned actress Pauline Quirke MBE, has announced his intention to undertake an emotional and challenging five-day trek in support of Alzheimer’s Research UK. The journey, scheduled for December 8-12, 2025, will cover a significant distance of 140 kilometers across several counties.
Emotional Journey with Dementia Diagnosis
The Quirke family faced a profound challenge when Pauline was diagnosed with dementia in 2021. This condition, which affects memory and cognitive function, has seen the actress step back from her career in the entertainment industry. The family’s heartbreak at the realization that there is currently no cure for dementia prompted them to pledge their support to Alzheimer’s Research UK.
Charlie Quirke expressed his excitement about participating in this trek, stating, “I’m really excited to support Alzheimer’s Research UK in this way, because it’s what my mum would want me to do. She’s such a selfless person, and I know she’ll be delighted that I’m doing this to help others.” His determination is not only driven by personal connection but also by the desire to contribute to research that could one day find a cure for dementia.
Tracing Pauline’s Footsteps
The trek will begin on Monday, December 8, from Chigwell, Essex, the location where the Birds of a Feather sitcom was set. Charlie plans to travel through London and visit places that hold special memories for his family. He intends to walk through old family homes, studios, and even the training ground of their beloved football team, West Ham United.
For Charlie, this journey is deeply personal as he retraces his mother’s career path from aspiring actress to sitcom superstar.
The trek will also serve as a way for him to learn more about his mother’s life. He said, “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.” This emotional aspect of the journey underscores the significance it holds for both Charlie and his family.
Family Support and Hope
Moments away from home, Pauline Quirke’s memories remain a constant presence. Despite the challenges posed by her condition, she is described as happy, content, and loving most of the day. This support comes from Charlie and his family who have become Ambassadors for Alzheimer’s Research UK.
Reflecting on their journey, the family stated, “Research is the only thing that will give families a light at the end of the tunnel.” The trek to Buckinghamshire on Friday, December 12, marks the end of this emotional and challenging journey. Charlie expressed his sentiment by saying, “I’ll carry all mum’s memories with me as I reach home for Christmas.”
Supporting Alzheimer’s Research UK
To support Charlie Quirke’s Trek For A Cure, individuals can donate through various means. The charity has set up a dedicated text line where people can send “CHARLIE5,” “CHARLIE10” or “CHARLIE20” to 70255. Alternatively, donations can be made online at www.charliestrek.org.
Hilary Evans-Newton, CEO of Alzheimer’s Research UK, expressed their gratitude, stating, “We’re honoured that Pauline Quirke and her family have become Ambassadors for our cause, and delighted that her son, Charlie, has decided to take on this challenge. By going on this gruelling trek, he will be helping to bring hope of a cure home to every family affected by dementia.” The CEO concluded with her best wishes for the journey ahead.
