Outside journalism

Outside journalism, Charley is passionate about dance. After 15 years ISTD  training in Ballet, Modern Theatre and Jazz, she graduated Drusilla Duffill Theatre School in Sussex at the age of 18. One of her favourite shows is The Nutcracker by Matthew Bourne.

Once at University, she joined the Dance Society. In her first year, she was part of the select team of dancers that travelled the UK attending dance competitions put on by other universities. Having been placed in the top three awards at other competitions, when Charley became a second year student, she took over the role of Secretary of the Dance Society, and was part of the organisation team that put together the first ever Staffordshire University Dance competition. The society went on to win Society of the Year for the fourth year running (see picture, right). Although still a member of the society in her third year, dance took a back seat while Charley concentrated on finishing her degree.

In 2007, Charley joined a group of 800 people from the Diocese of Arundel and Brighton on their annual pilgrimage to Lourdes, South of France. Since then, she has returned in 2009,’10, ’11 and looks forward to going in 2012. Over 250 helpers accompany sick and elderly pilgrims as well as able pilgrims, families and young helpers on the 1600 mile round trip. As part of the Hospitalite, Charley helps out with pilgrim’s day to day routines. With regular masses everyday, the trip is the highlight of Charley’s year.

Growing up as a practising Christian and attending a Catholic high school, religion is an important part of Charley’s life. Attending her family church in Sussex is a regular occasion when she returns home, and going on pilgrimage each year strengthens her faith and helps her realise how lucky she is in life.

Family is another important part of Charley’s life. Being part of an incredibly close family, any opportunity she gets she will make the 8 hour drive/6 hour train journey home from Stoke on Trent to Sussex. Making her family proud is a major motivator in life, and their love and support is what keeps her going.