About Us

About the Charity Dalek Squad

Established in 2003, the Charity Dalek Squad (CDS) is a UK-based volunteer group dedicated to supporting good causes through engaging, Doctor Who-themed appearances and events. Comprising over eighty passionate volunteers and hobbyists, our members have spent years organising and attending events across the country — all in the name of charity.

Who We Are

The Squad features a diverse and growing cast of characters from the Doctor Who universe, including:

Approximately thirty Daleks, many of which are interactive props and regularly attend events.

Various incarnations of The Doctor, brought to life by our talented members.

The Doctor’s companions, including the ever-faithful robotic dog, K9.

Iconic monsters and villains, such as Cybermen, Clockwork Droids, The Ood, Silurians, Scarecrows, and many more.

To explore our full range of characters, please visit our Monsters and Characters page.

Staying True to the Dalek Legacy

While Daleks are famously ruthless and menacing in the Doctor Who universe, our members can portray them in either a true-to-character or light-hearted, comedic manner — depending on the event and audience. However, we are committed to respecting the integrity of the Dalek image, in line with the expectations of the BBC and the Terry Nation Estate.

A Highlight in Our History

Over the years, the Charity Dalek Squad has had the privilege of supporting and attending many incredible events. Among our proudest achievements was our participation in the Doctor Who Experience during its penultimate weekend — a truly unforgettable moment for many of our members.

Even more exciting, we were honoured to be invited back by BBC Worldwide to appear in an official capacity on the final day of the exhibition. Being part of such a significant and memorable occasion was a dream come true, and although it was bittersweet to see the doors close for good, we will always cherish the memories.

You can view highlights from this special event in our Gallery.

Learn More

To discover the full range of services we offer — including appearances, shows, and interactive activities — please visit the About Us > Shows and Activities section.

Gary Gibson

Chairman

"I have been a proud member of the Charity Dalek Squad since 2014 and have had the honour of serving as Chair since December 2018.

My journey with the group began at the 2012 Dalek Invasion event held at the Fleet Air Arm Museum in Somerset. The experience left such a lasting impression that it inspired me to build my own Dalek — and I’ve never looked back.

Since joining, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed working alongside our dedicated members and supporting a wide range of incredible charitable causes. It’s been a privilege to help grow the group and continue its mission of bringing joy and raising funds through our shared passion for Doctor Who."

Terry Smith

Founder

"I founded the Charity Dalek Squad in 2003, with our very first appearance taking place at the National Space Centre in Leicester.

Being able to combine my passion for Doctor Who with the opportunity to raise awareness and funds for good causes has been incredibly rewarding. Over the years, I’ve had the pleasure of meeting countless wonderful people and witnessing the joy and amazement on the faces of those who attend our events.

Knowing that our efforts directly benefit charities and community initiatives makes every moment worthwhile. It’s a privilege to be part of something that brings people together for fun, fandom, and a greater purpose."

Anneka Lyford

Event Liaison Officer

"I joined CDS in 2013 after attending one of their events in Portsmouth. I became Event Liaison Officer in 2015, and it is my job to make sure that the event goes well. It had always been my dream to own a full-size New Series Dalek. With the guidance of CDS, I was able to build a second Dalek, and I am able to operate them when attending events, exterminating in the name of charity."

Ben May

Dalek Operator, Cyberman & Prop Builder

Ben is a versatile and skilled contributor to the Charity Dalek Squad, with expertise in prop building, costume design, and website graphics. He is particularly accomplished in Dalek operation, bringing authenticity and energy to every event.

Ben joined the Squad in 2013, completing his first Dalek — Syd — just hours before the Dalek Invasion event at the Fleet Air Arm Museum that same year. Since then, his creative portfolio has grown to include:

A 1960s-style TARDIS, built entirely from scratch and affectionately named Verity (pictured above)

An Earthshock-style Cyberman costume

Two Daleks: Syd and Ray

Ben continues to be an invaluable member of the team, combining technical skill with a passion for bringing the world of Doctor Who to life in support of charitable causes.

Christine Meldon

Costumer

"I officially became part of the Charity Dalek Squad following my first event at the Fleet Air Arm Museum in 2014.

Madame de Pompadour’s heartbreaking tale has always been both a personal and fan favourite of mine. Once I stepped into the role and looked the part, I truly fell in love with portraying her. I take great pride in bringing her character to life for the public — keeping her memory alive for those who adored her story, all while supporting wonderful causes.

The Charity Dalek Squad has become like a family to me, and I feel incredibly privileged to be part of such a dedicated and selfless group of individuals."

Shane Rhodes

Dalek Operator & Costumer 

"I've been a proud member of CDS since 2008. They helped me build my first Dalek, and my second Dalek, Dalek Candi, has become a popular attraction for CDS with her unique design and colour, helping to raise awareness for cancer charities. I've really enjoyed supporting CDS with all of my characters at every event I have been able to get to."

Ann Maddern

Costumer

"I have attended a few events with members of CDS over the last few years, and was delighted when the asked me to join the group officially last year. Being part of the group has helped me to become more confident cosplaying characters from the Doctor Who universe, and it is a rewarding and fun way to be able to help support events."

Hannah Lyford

Photographer / Costumer 

"I have been a keen member CDS since 2012. I mainly attend events as a U.N.I.T. officer, interacting with the public to make them feel safe and included. I also photograph events when I am not busy running away from the Daleks. I am immensely honoured to help CDS in their quest to support different charites but also spend quality time with friends doing things we are passionate about."

Marky-Mark McGeechan

Costumer

"I became involved with the CDS through a sister group. I now do more and more events with the Daleks. As a Time Lord [not a Dalek], it is my job to protect the humans from these angry blobs in polycarbide armour, which I shall do until the day I regenerate into my next incarnation."

Philip White

Musician & Costumer

Philip joined the group in 2014 and has portrayed the 10th Doctor and Cyberman too. He has played his hand at operating a Dalek as well. Philip is also our very own musician who composed and recorded the CDS theme music.