When Stewart lost his brother, Scott, to suicide in June 2023, his world changed forever. Determined to honour his memory and help others facing the same heartbreak, Stewart and his wife, Claire, set themselves a challenge that would push them physically and emotionally: the London to Brighton Bike Ride, in aid of SOS Silence of Suicide. 

The couple chose the event because of its reputation for being tough but rewarding, a challenge their family and friends could witness, one that symbolised resilience and commitment. Together, they trained, prepared, and on the day, rode side by side through the hills and into Brighton. 

From the very start, the importance of their cause was clear. At 6:00 in the morning, before the ride had even begun, a woman approached Stewart and Claire after seeing the charity’s name on their jerseys. She shared that she had lost her partner to suicide 15 years ago and still thought about him every day. She told them: “It is great that you want to get the message out there!” That moment gave Stewart and Claire the drive they needed to keep going, knowing their ride was already making a difference. 

Although their initial target was £250, the response was overwhelming. Thanks to the generosity of loved ones and supporters, Stewart and Claire raised over £1,600, helped further by the Gift Aid added, that will go on to support vital services like the SOS Freephone Helpline, in which it will contribute to 1000 minutes of vital conversation, which has seen the charity de-escalated 1500+ crisis calls last year alone. 

Reflecting on the ride, Stewart said: “What a great day. We had so many conversations about the charity and what it does. Entrants and supporters wished us good luck and gave us thumbs up for the charity. Even though the hills were tough, we rode together, kept going, and knew we were making a difference.” 

For Stewart and Claire, this was about more than a bike ride – it was a way of transforming grief into hope, shining a light on the devastating impact of suicide, and raising vital funds for families who need support. 

Jasmine Nisbett-Gordan, Events and Fundraising Manager at SOS Silence of Suicide, said: “Stewart and Claire’s story is one of love, strength, and courage. To take on this challenge in memory of Stewart’s brother is such a powerful way of honouring him, while also raising awareness of an issue that touches so many lives. We are incredibly grateful to them and to every supporter who helped them raise over £1,600. Their efforts will help us continue to be there for families affected by suicide.” 

And their journey doesn’t end here. Stewart and Claire are already planning their next challenge – a 24-hour endurance relay run in 2026 – proving their commitment to turning loss into lasting impact. 

If Stewart and Claire’s journey have inspired you, why not take on your own fundraiser? No idea is too small, and no effort goes unnoticed. Together, we can help ensure that no one has to face mental health struggles or suicide in silence. 

Having a conversation with someone you’re worried about can feel daunting, but it could change or even help save a life. That’s why SOS Silence of Suicide created the OPEN Conversations course, a free training programme designed to give people the confidence to notice the signs, start the conversation, and offer compassionate support. Together, we can build a culture where no one feels silenced by stigma, and every voice is heard. https://silenceofsuicidesos.org.uk/courses/free-mental-health-training/