Six Charlton legends will join 200 walkers at this Saturday’s fully booked Upbeats Walk, helping to raise vital funds for Charlton Athletic Community Trust’s (CACT) Down’s syndrome programme.
Addicks favourites Peter Garland Colin Walsh, Paul Mortimer, John Humphrey, Kim Dixson and Simon Webster have all committed to take part in this year’s event, which has now reached full capacity ahead of the walk on Saturday, April 25th 2026.
Together, the six Charlton legends made a combined 1,209 appearances for the club’s men’s and women’s first-teams, bringing together multiple eras of Charlton history for the seven-mile stroll.
Walkers will set off alongside the legends from the club’s Sparrows Lane Training Ground and make their way to The Valley, where they will cross the finish line pitchside in front of Sky’s cameras ahead of Charlton’s clash against Hull City.
This year’s walk has once again received fantastic support from the Charlton family, with 200 participants signing up to be part of the annual fundraiser.
Kim Dixson, who was recently inducted into Charlton’s Hall of Fame and has also worked closely with the Upbeats as part of her role at CACT, said: “I’m really looking forward to doing the Upbeats Walk this weekend. I know how much the donations really help the programme; it’s always a fantastic day and I can’t wait for it!”
Colin Walsh participated in the walk for the first time last year on the 10-year anniversary of the event, and is looking forward to taking part once again, saying: “I’m really proud that I’ve been asked to take part in the walk again. It’ll be lovely to see so many people at the Training Ground for a walk and a chat.”
Paul Mortimer added: “Bright and early we make this pilgrimage from Sparrows Lane to The Valley for the Upbeats. It’s a community scheme that offers the opportunity of football to people with Down’s syndrome; it brings joy to a lot of people and gives them the opportunity to play like their heroes on the pitch. It’s totally funded by donations, so please put your hand in your pocket and support the Upbeats.”
The Upbeats programme, which has been running for almost 20 years, offers vital support for participants and their families including sport, leisure and social opportunities. Over 170 participants are currently registered with the Upbeats, which is the only CACT programme funded entirely through voluntary donations.
Although walk places are now fully booked, supporters can still play their part by donating to the cause or sponsoring friends and family taking part. CACT would also like to encourage all registered walkers to continue their fundraising efforts prior to the day, with every donation helping to provide life-changing opportunities for the Charlton Upbeats. To donate and support the Upbeats Walk, click here.
