He portrays an ill-tempered GP with a dreadful bedside manner.
Yet, in the instance of Martin Clunes, it appears that reality does not mirror fiction.
The actor has stepped up to assist a baby boy who depicted his newborn child in the television series Doc Martin, and who urgently requires funds for essential medical equipment.
Alfie Cane, just six months old, who took on the role of the GP’s infant James Henry, suffers from a rare condition that prevents him from supporting his head.
Additionally, he has a misshapen skull, which could lead to serious complications if not treated promptly.
Tilly, 31, and Adrian, 40, Alfie’s parents, are in need of £2,000 to purchase a helmet designed to strengthen Alfie’s muscles and properly shape his skull as he grows.
Upon learning about Alfie’s situation, Clunes generously donated memorabilia worth hundreds of pounds that can be auctioned off.
Mrs. Cane, who works as a party planner, expressed, ‘We are extremely grateful. His kindness is truly appreciated.
‘For more than three months, Alfie was his baby on set, and we feel so lucky he has kept him in mind. His generosity will help ensure a healthier, brighter, and pain-free future for our son. He’s sent us a large box full of Doc Martin memorabilia, including the suit he wore during filming, a signed script, and a photo and book.’
Mr. and Mrs. Cane reside in Truro, Cornwall, alongside their three other children: Victoria, 13; Marcus, 11; and Billy, four. They were informed by the NHS that their son’s condition was primarily cosmetic, necessitating a lengthy wait to consult a specialist.
Recognizing that early treatment would significantly enhance Alfie’s prospects for improvement, they opted for private care – a costly decision they deemed essential.
The helmet that Alfie will be required to wear 24 hours a day for 18 months will amount to £2,000, a sum his parents claim is beyond their means. However, thanks to Clunes, they expect to acquire it in the coming weeks.
From the tender age of three weeks, Alfie was among six infants cast to portray the son of Dr. Martin Ellington and his headmistress partner Louisa (played by Caroline Catz) in the comedy-drama, shot in the fishing village of Port Isaac in Cornwall.
He appeared in all episodes of the recent series, which concluded this month and attracted around 10 million viewers.
A spokesperson for Clunes, 49, a married father of a ten-year-old daughter, stated: ‘Martin has kept in touch with Alfie and was genuinely pleased to assist.’
by Robbo Green
