Blyth man taking on brutal ultra-marathon to thank youth charity that changed his life

Ian Cowie became heavily involved in drugs during his youth and began using crack cocaine and heroin. At just 19, he received a nine-year prison sentence.

After leaving prison, Silx Teen Bar Youth Project helped him get back on his feet by offering guidance and helping him find his first job.

Thanks to the support of youth workers, Ian turned his life around and is now a father, scaffolder and property investor with a love for fitness and ultra-running challenges.

“I was a very violent young man, using drugs from a very young age, but I’ve gone from that to owning my own business and helping other kids,” Ian explained.

“I could still be like that now, but because of different influences and advice, I’ve turned my life completely around.”

Silx has been at the heart of the Blyth community since 1996, providing free support and activities for young people aged 11 to 25.

They provide a safe and welcoming ‘teen bar’ where young people can meet and speak to qualified youth workers, run an employability project and have a dedicated street engagement team.

“Silx were always there to listen,” Ian said. “Any time I had any issues, I had somewhere safe to go and get stuff off my chest without feeling judged.

“Not many people have heard of them, but they are a vital part of the community and they’re doing wonderful things.”

In January 2027, Ian will be taking on his toughest challenge yet as he gears up the Montane Winter Spine Race – 268-miles covering the entire Pennine Way in six and a half days.

Regarded by many as Britain’s toughest endurance race due to the brutal winter conditions, Ian is taking on the challenge to raise vital funds for Silx.

Ian added: “I have an addictive personality but I’ve put that into fitness. When I’m out there, everything gets left behind, all the problems with work and life, and it’s just complete peace.”

Donations can be made to Ian’s fundraiser here.

“It’s not just about raising money, it’s about raising awareness as well,” he added. “Someone could see one of my posts who has no idea who Silx are and it could be exactly what they need.”