Prisoner Charles Bronson wants to live in Devon

£25,000 fundraiser for a caravan

The man dubbed Britain's most violent prisoner wants to move to Devon if he is granted parole next week.

Charles Bronson, now known as Charles Salvador, and before that Michael Peterson, has spent nearly half a century in prison, much of it in solitary confinement.

Now his friends have launched a Just Giving page to try to raise £25,000 so Mr Peterson/Bronson/Salvador can enjoy the years remaining to him in Devon.

The notorious prisoner, now 70, was initially jailed for seven years for armed robbery, but more years were tacked on after he attacked other prisoners and officers.

He changed his named to Charles Bronson when on release in the 1980s to help his career as a bare-knuckle fighter. 

Back in prison, he became well-known for his artistic ability, taking people hostage and campaigning for prisoners' rights (not always politely).

In 2018, an unpleasant biopic based loosely on his life and crimes, featuring Tom Hardy, didn't do very well in the cinemas.

The fundraising page says: "Charlie's dream is to live in a caravan on a caravan site in Devon when he is released, where he can live a quiet life and do his artwork and live out the rest of his days as a pensioner."

It continues: "All indications from his care professionals and psychologists at HMP Woodhill are that his progress has been nothing short of amazing, and they all agree he deserves his chance at freedom. We completely appreciate the parole board need to be sure that if released Charlie will not be a danger to the public."

And Mr Bronson is looking forward to meeting his Devon neighbours. He says: "God bless you all. It's about time a few people helped me for a change. I'm looking forward to catching up with you all down the pub when I get out."

Mr Bronson's Just Giving Page has raised about £4,000 of its £25,000 target. It is at: http://bit.ly/3xUtRjE