Charles was educated at Sheffield Medical School, and took the diplomas M.R.C.S., L.R.C.P. in 1900. After filling the posts of resident assistant medical officer of Woolwich Infirmary and of resident medical officer of Ecclesall Union Infirmary, Sheffield, he went into practice at Commonside, Sheffield. Charles entered the war in France on 22nd May 1917. He was onboard the steamship S.S. “Normandy” when it was torpedoed and sunk by the German submarine U90. He was reported “missing, believed drowned” in the casualty list published on 9th February 1918. He was the son of Charles Albert and Laura Emily Mays of 182 School Road, Sheffield.