Just catching up with this, what a fright. He knows how to keep you on your toes that boy doesn't he? Glad he is OK off lead again.
It's probably as well to take a hot (or strong?) drink and sandwiches as well as dog treats. Perhaps Charlie was spooked by having to find his way home, too, and isn't so keen on following a scent any more.
Good to hear that he's staying close on walks but sounds as if Charlie is doing well after his and your fright x
I'm glad everything went well off lead. Put it down to a blip and maybe next time it's very windy and wet just do a lead walk. Who knows maybe this sunny spring weather is here to stay no more wind and rain. Well we can hope can't we.
