29/08/2026
Having met Martyn a couple of times and supported his efforts to get this memorial bench installed in Alresford, it was incredibly moving to finally see it in place.
The bench is in memory of his son, Archie, who tragically took his own life at just 19 years old.
I think most of us have, in some way, been touched by su***de. It is always heartbreaking, but there is something particularly devastating about a young life ending so soon.
Working with the Legend on the Bench Charity, Martyn raised the money for this to become the 136th memorial bench of its kind in the country.
At night, a solar-powered light gently shines from the bench as a beacon of hope. A plaque carries Martyn’s own words about Archie, alongside details of organisations including YoungMinds and Samaritans for anyone who may need support.
It is a beautiful tribute to Archie, but also a reminder that none of us should ever be afraid to talk about mental health, to check in on someone we are worried about, or to ask for help ourselves.
