Fundraising Charlotte's Army completes 'Captain Tom 100 Challenge'

By Guest

13th May 2021 | Local News

For five consecutive mornings Angie and Charlotte Reid lined up by the flagpole on Sidmouth seafront and walked 20 lengths, raising awareness and money for Brain Tumour Research, a charity very close to their hearts as Charlotte was diagnosed with a benign tumour in July 2015.

Family members, friends, Sidmouth Does Wear A Hat, Sidmouth Running Club, Sidmouth Skate Squad and Sidmouth Steppers, many in fancy dress, walked alongside them, cheering them on, with Christine Hardy playing her saxophone.

Angie and Charlotte had had the foresight to start training a few weeks in advance which proved very useful as the weather conditions were very varied with wind and rain an unpleasant combination for Charlotte sitting in the wheelchair and for Angie pushing.

Despite the weather a lot of fun was had; Angie was interviewed on Radio 5 and Radio Devon then heard BBC Spotlight were going to join them on the final morning.

Angie sums up, "On day 5, we were blown away- literally! By the wind and by the amount of people that joined us. Fancy dress, hats, colour and noise lined the esplanade and BBC Spotlight came to film and we all appeared on the lunchtime and evening news.

"All I have left to say is thank you to all involved, we feel honoured to have had your company whether for just one length or the 100. Thank you Captain Tom for your inspiration and being you. Thank you for your kind donations, for being interested in our challenge and the kind words you have bestowed on us all."

Mel Tiley, community development manager for Brain Tumour Research, came to Sidmouth to walk with Charlotte and Angie for the first and last 20 laps said, "We are so grateful to Charlotte's Army for their incredible Captain Tom 100 challenge along Sidmouth Esplanade. Charlotte's family have been truly dedicated fundraisers and supporters of Brain Tumour Research since Charlotte was diagnosed with a brain tumour, resulting in life-changing consequences."

The family smashed their £1,000 target (£10 per lap) with the total from the street collection and Just Giving page reaching an amazing £4,375.00.