Ron’s Daleks raise cash for charity

A multi-trade craftsman at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital has raised hundreds of pounds for local charities thanks to his unusual sci-fi hobby.

Dedicated Doctor Who fan Ronald Munns, from the hospital’s Estates Department, has been building incredibly realistic Daleks in his shed at home in Pathfinder Village. He initially started building the Daleks for fun in his spare time using scraps of wood and leftover materials, however soon realised they could have a more charitable purpose.

Since 2013, he has built two full-sized Daleks, one red and one black, which now appear at sci-fi conventions and charity events across the country. Both Daleks talk and squirt water, and his newest creation, the Red Dalek, is even radio controlled.

The Black Dalek is now owned by local sci-fi group the Exewing Fundraisers who are collecting for Hospiscare this year at various events including their own Mini Convention Starbase Honiton on 22nd July.  Ron still owns the Red Dalek, and his two creations often appear at charity events together.

Ron said: “It is a fun hobby as people often remember hiding behind the sofa when the Daleks first appeared over 50 years ago on our screens.  Most people love the Daleks coming towards them shouting ‘Exterminate!’ but some run away. The brothers often trundle together at events and they are very good at collecting with tins hanging from their guns! We don't know how much they have helped raise for various causes in total but it's been good fun! I might even get back in the shed and build another.”

If you are interested in hiring the Daleks for a charity event please contact the RD&E’s Estates Department on 01392 411611.