Charlie Bird

The legendary broadcaster is sick with Motor Neurone Disease but has his sights set on checking off everything on his bucket list - including seeing The ...

I am just looking for one sponsor to make it happen." Yes I made it to the top of Croagh Patrick. Now hopefully I can survive to see Brucie next year. One person wrote: "No doubt you will smash this goal too Charlie!!! Good luck getting a ticket!!!!

Shortly after dawn in a quiet suburban estate in Ashford, Co Wicklow, Charlie Bird is woken by the whimpering of his dog, Tiger. The golden cockapoo used to ...

With his hands on the wheel, he can’t reach for a pen. For the first months of his illness, he didn’t have the peace of mind to read books or watch television. For the first time all day he seems happy to stay quiet. He no longer listens to the radio or reads the news. He has given a great deal of thought to his funeral. He grabs the pen and paper and writes so fast it’s hard to decipher, but eventually I make out the words: Can we go for a short walk? He keeps reaching for his pad and writing with increasing urgency. “My biggest fear is choking to death,” he says. Inside it are the words “Time and tide wait for no man, Love Bird.” There is a picture in the locket — of Tiger. It’s only when he tries to speak that the ravages of his illness become clear. He has always got on well with his neighbours, but keeps to himself now. He makes his way down the stairs, stepping past another portrait of Tiger. Outside the sun is shining and the pink Cressida roses are in bloom.

The mother-of-two donated €5300 to the country's only dedicated children's grief centre in Limerick.

They are currently fundraising to build a new, purpose built centre so please, please consider fundraising for them if you have any future events coming up. “We met with founder Sr Helen, chief fundraiser Carol and psychotherapist Teresa, who gave up their precious time explaining what this money would mean to the charity. Writing on Instagram, Ms Phelan said: “[I] visited the premises of the Children’s Grief Centre here in Limerick with one of my oldest friends from home, Laura, to hand over a cheque for €5,300 raised by Laura and her sisters and my Dad and Mam following the Climb with Charlie event to Croagh Patrick last month.

Vicky Phelan delivered the money raised from Charlie Bird's climb to a 'fantastic' charity in Limerick on Friday.

They offer a fantastic service that so many more children and young people could avail of if the Centre were up and running in their new premises,’ she said. ‘This €5,300 raised will help the Children’s Grief Centre to provide their support services to children and young people affected by loss through death, separation or divorce. ‘So wonderful to have you with us today Vicky! Thank you for popping in, alongside Laura today!