On June 21, 2025, I’m taking on the Cotswold Way Ultramarathon—a 100km run—to raise money for Mind. This is a huge challenge for me, pushing me far outside my comfort zone. However, we must step into tough environments to make a real difference. While running this ultramarathon will be an incredible challenge, it’s nothing compared to the battles people face with their mental health every day.

Mental health is a cause that’s deeply personal to me. I’ve seen people I love struggle, and tragically, some have lost their battles. Over the last 5 years, I have lost 4 Friends who couldn't fight it any longer and chose to exit this world. These are people who every day had a smile on their face, the first person to ask if you were ok. The youngest of my friends was 23 when he took his life and the oldest was only 36. On the outside no one knew what they were hiding, they looked like they were on top of the world and had everything. Then one day it became clear to all of their families and friends that it was not as it seemed.

Many of my friends left children and wives behind. I became close to all these guys over our love for a game of rugby. A sport this is built on being the toughest guys in the room, Beat up and rugged, always up for a laugh and pint. I want to help make sure we can prevent this from happening again to anyone I love, call a friend, or even someone who may be close to you.

We all know someone—whether a friend, family member or colleague—who has carried the weight of mental health struggles. It’s heartbreaking that 1 in 4 people in England will experience a mental health issue each year, and 1 in 5 will have had suicidal thoughts.

Mind provides a lifeline to so many, but they need our help to continue reaching those in need. I’ve set a goal to raise £600 but the more I can raise the more this incredible charity can reach out to more people and hopefully prevent further tragedies, and I’m reaching out to ask for your support. Every donation, no matter the size, will make a real impact. Whether it’s the price of a pint or more, your contribution will help Mind continue its vital work, support those struggling with mental health, and contribute to removing the stigma surrounding mental health and open conversations. Together, we can make a difference—no gesture is too small to help break the silence and create a supportive, understanding community.

Please take a moment to watch this video to see just how life-changing Mind’s work can be. Together, we can get closer to a world where no one has to face mental health challenges alone.

Thank you for any support and donations!

Liam