One of the finest Chesterfield products of the inter-war period, Charlie played early "A" team football up front, but grew into an excellent back, combining great strength and timing with the ability to read the game.A cousin of Colchester's Roy Bicknell, he came from the same village team as Alec Betton:it was estimated that, around the mid-twenties, there were as many as twelve ex-pros, current and future players living in the same New Tupton street!

Charlie joined the Spireites on amateur forms in 1926 and worked his way through the 'A' and reserve teams before claiming the left-back spot after the departure of Bill Dennis.He was never dropped at Chesterfield, and, after missing one Bradford City match through injury in his first season, embarked on a run of 224 consecuitve League appearances that ended only with his transfer to Upton Park.

He played in excess of 200 war games for the Hammers while serving as a Special Constable.Having gained a War Cup winners' medal at Wembley in 1940, he retired during the '46-7 season when, playing at the age of 41, he still skippered the side.Charlie settled in Bedford, combining his post-war involvement with Bedford Town with a job as a meter reader in the town.