Duo head north for Men Only IW

Two Island men are heading north while taking part in endurance challenges to raise awareness and vital funds for Men Only IW, the Island’s grassroots mental health organisation.

Aaron Oliver set off on August 29 to walk more than 350 miles from the IW to Newcastle United’s St James’ Park, while Dave Walters intends to pedal 250 miles from Ryde to Sheffield in his ‘Big Ride’, setting out on September 22. Though very different in pace and distance, both challenges require resilience, stamina, and determination.

Funds raised will go directly to Rodger & Steve’s Place in Ryde, a safe community space where men and women can access peer support, warm meals, creative groups, and a listening ear. It was named after two Ryde men who took their own lives after suffering mental health challenges.

Managing Director of Men Only IW Karl Hart, praised the pair. He said: “Aaron and Dave are doing something remarkable, not for medals or applause, but to show what men are capable of when they push forward together. Their journeys remind us that mental health is not a private battle, it’s something we face as a community.”

Men Only IW supports hundreds of Islanders each month, working alongside grassroots groups and NHS services to provide vital lifelines.

You can support their efforts at iw.observer/aaron-fundraiser or iw.observer/dave-fundraiser.