The most hilarious unique individual who could connect with anyone and make them laugh. Beautiful eyes and a soul to match. Charlie:

Charlie’s passion for music brought a smile to everyone. It was rare to see Charlie not playing an instrument - especially his acoustic guitar. Such talent will be incredibly missed (but not so much the singing - sorry Charlie! (He would tell me off for not mentioning he was an impressive skateboarder to make up for that…)

He made himself known as a successful DJ - 'Dextone' and performed in some incredible places. Charlie achieved his dream when he was invited to play at Fabric in London. He said it was ‘the best moment of his life'. Charlie lived life to the absolute fullest and experienced what others could only dream of.

Not only did Charlie meet some fantastic people, but he was one. Charlie and two other talented artists - Harry Shotta and Phantasy, broke Eminem's world record with their track 'Animal'.

One of my fondest memories is when he started playing ‘stand by me’ down the road - suddenly, out of nowhere a little hedgehog came out to bop along next to him as he played. Another one of his many mad stories includes Suggs from 'Madness' requesting ‘it must be love’ and cheeky Charlie responding with ‘who by?’ Soon they were taking selfies and best buds!

Like many of us in lockdown, Charlie went through a rough patch, but he persevered, picked himself up, found new work, and a new place of his own. Charlie also met his beautiful girlfriend Amy, who amazingly happens to be a dear mutual friend. Since their time together, Charlie never stopped smiling. I am so happy they found each other... and their mutual love for salt lamps!

Charlie adored Penguins - Recently we got to catch up. I gifted him a cuddly penguin as a housewarming gift. His face lit up (his teeth actually showing!) This was the last time we got to speak in person, but I'm eternally grateful I was able to give him a big hug tell him how proud I was of him.

I think back to the happy times we danced like wollys all night at a wedding, or when we went camping in the chucking down rain just because we were bored. I believe he is still dancing and telling us to smile and celebrate his life. Making him a promise I will do just that... AND learn guitar without us bickering about it!

And to Charlie... I will do my best to help the penguins for you, but I may have to give your Rubix cube a miss! I love you so much and thank you for being my best friend. I’m glad you can now play your music and watch ‘nailed it’ as loud as you want! I will see you again soon, in a much better place than hopefully the travel lodge we used to call the ‘holiday house’!

Just as you said to me, I will always - 'Keep the energy going.

All my love. Always.

Bo

My heart goes out to Charlie's incredibly strong and beautiful mum Sue, and his loved ones. Thank you to all who have been so wonderful and supportive during this difficult time.