The Bracknell Sunday League ref who’s completed 28 consecutive half marathons

By day, Charles Walker is a GP and sometimes at the weekend, a Bracknell Town & District Sunday League referee.

During the Covid 19 lockdown period though, Charles has become a superstar fundraiser and athlete, raising nearly £4,000 while completing 28 half marathons in 28 days since the 6th May 2020.

Charles’ efforts have been inspired by the plight of a Didcot family, the Howes, who’s daughter Yasmin was diagnosed with cancer this year.

The GP, who completed his challenge on Tuesday night, was also raising money for the cancer unit at Oxford’s John Radcliffe Hospital as well as Didcot Town Supporters Club.

Speaking to Football in Berkshire, Charles said: “Jamie Heapy, Didcot Town’s manager and captain of the 2005 FA Vase-winning team, ran last 5 miles with me. We also ran by Yasmin’s house at midnight too which was nice. Thanks for all your support.”

Walker had been enjoying his first season reffing in Bracknell’s Sunday League before the season was curtailed: “My first game was Bracknell Athletic vs FC Showcase, then the season went pear-shaped with the weather in January and February. East Berks Youth League and Thames Valley Development League were my other affiliations. Shortest refereeing career in history because of the lockdown! When fixtures resume BT&DSL will be my main focus.”

If you’d like to donate to Charles’ fundraising efforts, take a look at the GoFundMe page here.