Charlie Quirke has raised over £177,000 for Alzheimer’s Research UK after completing a five-day Trek for a Cure retracing his mother’s steps
Pauline Quirke’s son has raised over £177,000 after completing his charity trek for Alzheimer’s Research UK. Charlie Quirke crossed the finish line of his Trek For A Cure in Buckinghamshire on Friday, having undertaken the challenge after his mum was diagnosed with dementia in 2021.
Earlier this year, the 66-year-old actress, famous for her role as Sharon Theodopolopodous in the beloved BBC sitcom Birds Of A Feather, stepped back “from all professional and commercial duties”.
Over five days, Charlie retraced his mother’s journey through life, visiting meaningful locations including former schools, theatres, and the Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts.
He expressed his gratitude: “I can’t thank people enough. The love from people all over the country has meant everything, from those who have joined me or messaged me or stopped me in the street to thank me for doing this.
“I’m blown away by how much we’ve raised for Alzheimer’s Research UK, and I just want to thank everyone for caring. We’ve done this to raise money to find a cure, and we’re so grateful to everyone who has got behind our family.”
Charlie began his journey in Chigwell, Essex – the setting of Birds Of A Feather – on December 8, with fellow cast members Linda Robson and Ray Winstone there to see him off.
His route then took him to West Ham United’s training ground at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in east London, home to the family’s cherished football club. His journey wound through Greater London, Surrey and Berkshire, taking in former family residences, studios and other significant locations from his mother’s life.
Throughout the week, Charlie was accompanied by several well-known personalities, including actors Mathew Baynton and Perry Benson, whilst television presenter Lorraine Kelly walked alongside him for the concluding stretch.
Steve Sheen, Charlie’s father, explained: “This support for Alzheimer’s Research UK is not just for Pauline, it’s for everyone affected by dementia.
“If nothing changes, one in two will be directly affected by dementia, either by developing the condition themselves, caring for someone with it or both. We can’t continue to accept that.”
Jessica Taylor-Khan, director at Alzheimer’s Research UK, commented: “Charlie’s efforts have raised over £177,000 for dementia research so far, and this will make such a difference in our efforts to speed up progress towards a cure.
“Something we desperately need. On top of that, Charlie has raised much-needed awareness of dementia and given a voice to so many others who are experiencing the devastation of this condition.
“These conversations will help drive the change we desperately need for everyone affected by dementia. We can’t thank Charlie enough for his support.”
Source: Mirror
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