On November 2nd I will be attempting to break the world record for “farthest distance pushing a lawn mower in 24 hours”. I am trying to raise awareness for both mental health throughout the UK and funds for Movember and Chobham Rugby Club.

Having run my own business for over 15 years in landscaping, COVID and outside pressures took their toll. I was forced to close the doors and the decision to do so weighed heavy on my shoulders. As things spiralled, my mental health was clearly feeling the weight of the situation also. Depression and dark thoughts prevailed and I just didn’t ask for help. “I got myself in it, I’ll get myself out” is the attitude I stuck to.

I count myself lucky to have the support of an amazing family, who helped me from where I was to where I am today. Since recovering from the stresses and strains, I’ve come to learn so much more about the kind of help that there is available to those who so desperately need it.

Over the last few years, running has become my therapy and the thing I enjoy doing the most. It helps me in so many ways. On a daily basis, I get outside and into nature. Long term, I’ve strived for success in completing long distance challenges, which gives me a focus and a goal to work towards. 24 hours mowing…what better way to bring awareness to the benefits of endurance sports whilst raising some much needed funds. I am very passionate about showcasing sports as more than just a hobby. Whether it’s a team game like rugby, or an individual sport such as running, you are never alone and there are huge networks of teams and clubs who can help you.

Chobham Rugby Club is a great example of sport in the community. Having played plenty of rugby in my younger years, I am now very fortunate to be head coach of my sons team and also have my youngest daughter playing at Chobham too. The latest challenge faced by many clubs is making sure the facilities are available for women as female sport continues to grow at the rate it is. Not only has Chobham had great success in getting women into rugby, they’ve also appointed a lead in mental health. Another example of how rugby and sport is doing as much as it can to look out for one another.

So there’s the why, now I need you to give whatever you can to this cause. Please sponsor me anything you can, and in doing so, you’ll be helping the thousands of people who need it right now. Second to that, if you’ve been thinking about taking up a sport or any form of fitness, I would encourage to look up your local club or organisation and go get involved. Let’s break the stigma around mental health and talk to each other more.

A bit about Movember:

Our fathers, partners, brothers and friends are facing a health crisis, yet it’s rarely talked about. Men are dying too young. We can’t afford to stay silent.

We are the leading charity changing the face of men’s health. We know what works for men – and what doesn’t. Prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health and suicide prevention – we’re taking them all on.

Since 2003, Movember has funded more than 1,250 men’s health projects around the world, challenging the status quo, and shaking up men’s health research.