Legend on the Bench

Installation of Our 45th Suicide Prevention Bench – Bishop’s Stortford, 21/08/2025

NFU Mutual--NFU Mutual West Essex Agency

Yesterday marked another poignant milestone for Legend on the Bench as we installed our 45th Suicide Prevention Bench, this time in Bishop’s Stortford.

The Unveiling of Our Bench.

The event was kept intentionally private, attended only by a small group of invited guests. Among them was the Lord Mayor of Bishop’s Stortford Richard Townsend whose presence was both an honour and a privilege. He spoke movingly about the increasing need for mental health support and the vital role charities like ours play in tackling the rising crisis of suicide and mental health struggles.

The Lord Mayor with my sister Michelle

Also in attendance were two wonderful representatives from NFU Mutual, who shared a truly touching story. When their donation to our charity was put forward, it was approved unanimously in under two minutes, because, in their words, our mission resonated with everyone from the start.

Representatives of NFU Mutual

Thanks to the generosity of NFU Mutual via the NFU West Essex Agency, we received a donation of £8,000, enabling the installation of four Suicide Prevention Benches. We are incredibly grateful for this support. We’re pleased to share that the next bench funded by this donation will be placed in Hatfield Forest—date to be confirmed.

At the event, after the speeches were delivered, the bench was unveiled by the Mayor, NFU representatives Issy and her colleague, and my sister Michelle. As always, the moment the cover comes off brings a wave of emotion. It’s a visual reminder of the message we’re spreading: one of, hope, support, and understanding for those struggling in silence.

A touching moment occurred just before the event began. As we arrived, we found a lady already sitting on the bench. We started chatting, and when she learned the bench’s purpose and message, she began to cry—tears of joy, knowing that someone out there cares enough to support people going through tough times. That moment stayed with all of us, it encapsulated exactly why we do what we do.

A heartfelt thank you to the Lord Mayor for joining us, and saying beautiful words about our charity and our cause. Hopefully see you at the next reveal in Hatfield Forest.

A massive thank you to NFU Mutual and the NFU West Essex Agency for your incredible generosity and presence. Your support is helping to save lives, and together, we truly are making a difference.

“This life. This night. Your story. Your hope. It matters. You matter. All of it matters.”