My Story

In June 2025 Laura, Ben and I will be taking part in the Great North Swim. We will be swimming a two-mile circuit of Lake Windermere to raise money for a charity very close to all of our hearts, Betknowmore UK.

Ollie and I always wanted to take part in an outdoor swim event. It was a shared ambition, but unfortunately, we never got the opportunity to do this together. If Ollie was taking part, I know he would have been pestering me about training, trying to beat my records, and comparing the number of lengths. He always argued he was the better swimmer!

Thankfully, Laura and Ben have agreed to take on this challenge with me, and to be honest I’m not sure I could do it without them, the 9pm training sessions can be very lonely.

My brother Ollie tragically took his own life last February as a result of awful, all-consuming addictions. His demons and addictions not only made him doubt the incredible person that he was, but they eventually stole Ollie from us.

Betknowmore UK is dedicated to raising awareness, delivering support services, and through education, creating more understanding about gambling related harm. This charity was hugely important to Ollie and has provided our family with an enormous amount of support over the last year.

Any donations would be gratefully received. Raising money for Betknowmore UK will have a huge impact and will help them to continue the amazing work that they provide.

Miss you forever Ol. This one’s for you. x