Linda Robson delivered a moving update on her lifelong companion, Pauline Quirke, this morning, revealing the pair had recently shared a meal together.
The 67-year-old Loose Women panellist, who joined Mr Quirke's son Charlie for the interview, described their restaurant reunion approximately three to four weeks ago.
"It was so lovely, I was so happy because she was happy," Robson said. "She was just giggling, and she ate everything as well.
"I left there happy because she was happy, and I knew they were looking after her really well."
Linda Robson shared an update on Pauline Quirke today
|BBC
The visit clearly brought comfort to Ms Robson, who confirmed her former co-star appeared content and well cared for.
The two actresses first met when they were just 10 years old, forging a bond that would span more than five decades.
Their friendship blossomed into professional success as they became household names playing sisters Sharon and Tracey in the much-loved sitcom Birds of a Feather.
Ms Quirke received her dementia diagnosis in 2021 at the age of 61, prompting her withdrawal from public life and retirement from acting.
Linda Robson has teamed up with Pauline's son Charlie
|BBC
Since then, her husband Steve Sheen and their children have provided daily care and support at the family home.
Ms Robson has remained steadfast in preserving their friendship throughout Ms Quirke's health journey.
Ms Quirke's son has embarked on an ambitious 140km trek today to raise funds for Alzheimer's Research UK, a charity working towards finding a cure for the condition affecting his mother.
The 31-year-old set off live on air from Chigwell this morning, with Ms Robson and his father Mr Sheen among the supporters gathered to see him begin.
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Linda Robson and Pauline Quirke
|His route will take him to locations of significance throughout Ms Quirke's life and career over the coming days.
The walk is scheduled to conclude on Friday, with the actress's son arriving at the family home ahead of Christmas.
Mr Quirke explained his motivation stems from his mother's own wishes, describing her as "such a selfless person" who is "delighted" he is undertaking the challenge to help others.
"I'm really excited to support Alzheimer's Research UK in this way, because it's what my mum wants me to do," he said.
Linda Robson was in attendance for Charlie's charity challenge
|He added: "I'm doing it for her, and for every family that has experienced the devastation of dementia, because we must do all we can to find a cure."
His father expressed immense pride before the walk commenced, saying: "I am just so proud of him. We are here to support him, and we are just very, very proud."
Linda Robson paid tribute to Pauline's son Charlie
|Shortly after their interview on BBC Breakfast, Ms Robson took to Instagram to pay tribute to her co-star's son and his charity efforts.
"Wishing @charlie_quirke all the luck in the world as he starts his trek today! So happy to have been there to see you off. Please donate if you can," she said, alongside a handful of love heart emojis.