[2] Prior to taking up speedway, Charles worked as a baker and grocer, and performed in music halls with a piano accordion.

[3] In 1929 Charles rode for Burnley, in 1930 for Manchester White City and then for Leeds Lions and Belle Vue in 1931 but was badly injured and lost his form, and so retired from the sport.

[3] In 1933, the Belle Vue Aces tempted him out of retirement, and looked to have regained his former form when he won the Wembley championship that year, also breaking the track record.

In 1935 Wembley Lions paid £1,000 to sign Charles, where he became the club's top scorer and was selected to ride for England against Australia.

However, after being excused a test call up on 15 July 1939, Charles was killed whilst taking part in a national gliding competition.