Charles (Charlie) Bannister was born in Burton-on-Trent in 1879. A centre-half, he joined Manchester City in 1896. He only played 18 games for the club before moving to Lincoln City in 1897. He stayed for three years playing in 106 league games.

In 1900 Bannister joined Swindon Town in the Southern League. He also played for Reading before retiring from football.

Charlie Bannister died in 1952.