Charlie Quirke, son of the much-admired British actress Pauline Quirke, is preparing to take on a meaningful five-day challenge this December in support of Alzheimer’s Research UK.
From 8–12 December, he will cover roughly 140 kilometres, trekking across five counties in what he describes as one of the most emotional journeys of his life.
The long walk comes at a time when the family is facing the reality of Pauline’s mad opinion, which was revealed before this time.
For many who grew up watching Catcalls of a Feather, Pauline remains a familiar and favored face on British TV.
Her opinion has not only urged her to step back from acting but has also inspired her family to raise awareness about madness, memory loss, and the need for better treatment and exploration.
A Journey Inspired by Pauline’s Life and Legacy
Charlie’s journey will begin in Chigwell, Essex, famously used as the fictional birthplace in catcalls of a Feather.
From there, he’ll make his way through a series of locales linked to his mama’s life and career, including family houses, well-known workrooms, and indeed the West Ham United training ground.
These stops have been chosen not for hype, but for particular meaning, each one holding recollections of Pauline’s work, family life, or treasured moments.
Musketeers and family members will be joining Charlie at different points along the route. He says their support, combined with recollections of his mum, will keep him motivated.
As he put it himself, “What will keep me going is knowing that I’ll be reaching places that mean so much to Mum.”
His trek will conclude on 12 December at the family home in Buckinghamshire, a fitting and emotional end just as the family prepares for the Christmas season.
Support for Dementia Research at a Critical Time
Dementia remains one of the UK’s most pressing health challenges, affecting countless families and placing enormous strain on carers.
Alzheimer’s Research UK, the country’s leading madness exploration charity, continues to push for improvements in early detection, treatment, and eventually a cure.
“It’s what my mum wants me to do. We must do all we can to find a cure.”
On 8 December Charlie Quirke will trek 140km for his mum, Pauline Quirke MBE who is living with dementia. #TrekForACure #CharliesTrek (1/3) pic.twitter.com/Q9srEhusZm
— Alzheimer’s Research UK (@AlzResearchUK) November 17, 2025
Hilary Evans- Newton, principal superintendent of the charity, praised the Quirke family’s sweats, noting how particular juggernauts like Charlie’s help punctuate why madness exploration matters to so many across the UK.
With Pauline Quirke now living with madness, the family hopes that their involvement will encourage further people to understand the reality of the condition and support exploration that could change the future for millions.
How to Support Charlie’s Trek for a Cure?
Anyone wishing to back Charlie’s fundraising can donate by texting:
- CHARLIE5,
- CHARLIE10, or
- CHARLIE20
to 70255, or by visiting www.charliestrek.org.
A Personal Mission With a Universal Message
Charlie’s “Trek For A Cure” isn’t just a physical challenge, it’s a tribute to his mum, a way of honouring her career in British television, and a reminder of how dementia impacts families across the UK.
By sharing his journey and raising vital funds, he hopes to shine a light on a condition that touches so many lives yet still lacks a cure.
Through this heartfelt effort, he aims to inspire others, support ongoing dementia research, and keep Pauline Quirke’s legacy alive in a way that feels both meaningful and profoundly personal.
