Future is brighter for Jacob, thanks to help from his friends
An Amble surfer whose belongings and camper van home were stolen, has thanked his family, friends and members of the public for helping him get back on his feet.
Jacob Poulton in his new campervan
Jacob Poulton told The Ambler, “It’s just surreal how much support I’ve received from so many people coming together. I am so grateful to everybody who contributed because I wouldn’t be where I am now without them. I am still slowly getting back on my feet, and that’s thanks to everybody. I could have been a lot worse off,”
Over £1,800 was raised after friends set up a crowdfunder for Jacob, which he has put towards converting a new van, and replacing essential items, like clothing. Seventy people contributed to the fund.
“I used it for building my new van to the point that I can sleep in it and live in it comfortably (including all cooking appliances and bedding and lots and lots of timber). I’ve also got some clothes now which is nice. My parents helped me to get a new surfboard and wetsuit.”
Before moving to Cornwall in 2021, surf instructor Jacob hit the news after helping to save three swimmers who got into difficulties in Druridge Bay.
As reported in the last issue of The Ambler, Jacob was left devastated after the camper van in which he lived was stolen on a trip back home to Amble. All his belongings were in the van, and police were unable to track down the thief. Jacob’s insurance did not cover the replacement of his belongings.
Now, with his newly refurbished van, Jacob has been able to return to Cornwall, where he is beginning a new job as a surf instructor. He told us, “It’s quite a simple life at the moment, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing.”
Anna Williams
Related article:
Friends rally round for lifesaving Amble surfer who lost home
