High-profile sports figures are speaking out in support of notorious British prisoner Charles Bronson, calling for his release after nearly 50 years behind bars.
Among the voices joining the campaign are former world heavyweight boxing champion Tyson Fury and ex-Chelsea football stars John Terry and Dennis Wise.
A Lifetime Behind Bars
Bronson, 72, first entered prison in 1974 at the age of 21.
Though his initial sentence was only seven years, repeated violent incidents extended his time behind bars, much of it spent in solitary confinement.
Over the decades, he has become one of the UK’s longest-serving prisoners.
In 2014, Bronson changed his name to Charles Salvador in tribute to surrealist artist Salvador Dali, and he has increasingly used his time in custody to focus on art and charitable endeavors.
Petition Gains Momentum
A petition on Change.org, titled “Grant Long-standing Prisoner Charles Salvador His Much Deserved Release,” has gained traction on social media.
Created eight months ago by artist Vanessa McNeice, the petition has garnered over 4,700 signatures and emphasizes Bronson’s rehabilitation and his desire to care for his ageing mother.
The campaign highlights that Bronson has “used the confinement of prison walls to grow personally” and has contributed to society through his artwork, which has been displayed publicly and sold to raise money for charity.
Tyson Fury Sends Message of Support
Tyson Fury, 37, sent a personal video message to Bronson, referring to him as his “old mate.”
Fury encouraged Bronson to “keep yourself on the straight and narrow” and expressed hope that he would soon be reunited with the outside world.
“Get up Charlie, let’s get him home now boys, he’s been in jail enough now — that’s enough.
Bring him home, let him out, come on Charlie. Home you come son,” Fury said in the video.
Football Legends Join the Cause
Ex-Chelsea captain John Terry also shared a video message, urging Bronson to enjoy time with family and friends if released.
Dennis Wise, his former teammate, added his support, suggesting that Bronson could use his passion for fitness to help others once free.
“Hi Charlie, it’s Dennis Wise here. I know you’ve done nearly 50 years and maybe it’s time you get out now and go on the straight and narrow,” Wise said.
Boxer Derek Chisora Throws Weight Behind Campaign
Boxer Derek Chisora also voiced his support online, encouraging Bronson to experience life outside prison.
“We will fight for you to come out and God bless man.
War!” Chisora said in a campaign video.
Bronson’s Violent Past and Time Behind Bars
Bronson’s first sentence was for aggravated burglary, assault with intent to rob, and possession of a firearm.
Subsequent violent incidents in prison, including taking a teacher hostage in 2000, led to additional life sentences and special containment measures.
He also served sentences for assaults on prison staff, with his most recent conviction in 2014.
Despite this history, Bronson’s later years have been marked by art and charity.
His work has been publicly displayed, including on the London Underground, and auctioned to support causes such as cerebral palsy treatment.
Petition Highlights Rehabilitation and Family Needs
The Change.org petition emphasizes Bronson’s rehabilitation and his remorse for past actions.
It also stresses the urgent need for him to care for his elderly mother.
“Charles Salvador Bronson has been incarcerated for 50 years — a period well past his destined time.
His rehabilitation and contributions to society are proof enough that he has significantly changed his life for the better,” the petition reads.
The campaign argues that releasing Bronson would allow him to support both himself and his mother through his art, giving him a chance to contribute positively to society outside prison walls.
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