For Big JG, My Mum
A foundation can crack from weight it could not bear, But you were Hessle Road rock, with a no bullshit stare. Kestrel in your courage, Three Hammers in your name, Big JG walked in…
Oi! Lads, Listen
Oi. Before you tell me you’re fine, look me in the eye and lie properly. Because I know that nod, mate. I’ve used it. That little “yeah, sound” with a whole car crash going…
For Ben, My Brother. My Mate
For Ben Born the year of ’83, a twin to your Becky, A winter baby with a laugh so loud and cheeky. We called you Negbutt for the grey clouds you’d see, Yet your…
Where Nobody Walks Alone
Some charities start with meetings, with clipboards, plans and tea. This one started where hearts broke, where no heart should ever be. It started with Jamie missing, with questions left behind, with Chelsey trying…
Tired Feet
I see you seeing me, the looks you try to hide, my kids, my family, my mates, all stood there at the side. I know you’re worried, I know I look half gone, I…
When the Jobs Ran Out
Four weeks since we said goodbye, and still I haven’t learnt to cry. The forms are done, the calls have stopped, your house is cleared, the keys are dropped. I’m sat here on the…
When The House Goes Quiet
I wait till the house is quiet, that’s when I let myself crack. No shouting, no scene, just me with the mask pulled back. On the sofa staring through nothing, while the room throws…
When Survival Finally Stopped
A week ago I stood in a room and read your life out loud. My brother. My mate. My own blood in a coffin while I tried not to break in front of the…
For The Men Who Say They’re Fine
This for the men who laugh too loud when the room goes quiet and dark, the ones who say “I’m sound, mate,” with a riot in their heart. The ones who fix everybody else…
8 Months to Heavy
I’ve had eight months that should’ve come with a warning, not a little bad patch or some character forming. The sort of months that sit on your chest, then ask why you’re not breathing…