Charity raffle launched in memory of 'Pickles'

AN Antrim family last week launched a fundraising charity raffle scheme to raise money for causes close to the heart of their brother and son, who died in a mountaineering accident in Wales.

Will Onion (33), a former soldier with the Royal Corps of Signals who served in Afghanistan, had been living in Bournemouth with his partner Nichol where he ran a business bringing people together ‘through social group hikes, bootcamp fitness classes and personal training’.

He fell around 200 metres in Snowdonia on 11 November 2023, at the same time as the two-minute Remembrance Day silence.

Mr Onion, originally from Muckamore, is survived by his parents Alastair and Julie, sister Amy, and his partner Nichol.

Will’s family and friends have raised thousands for charity since his passing, and are now taking things a step further.

Pickles Prizes will raise funds for Llanberis Mountain Rescue, which helped recover Will’s body and assist his traumatised friends.

Also benefiting will be Rock2 Recovery UK, which helps forces veterans, frontline workers and families through tough challenges.

And closer to home, money will also be raised for Lough Neagh Rescue, which helped search for Alan Whiteside, a friend of Will’s, who went missing in December 2023.

At the event at Chimney Corner FC last week, entertainment was supplied by BlueSkies and speeches were read out by William’s sister Amy and Stacey Gallagher from Empire Socials, who is assisting the family.

A statement read out on behalf of Rock2Recovery said: “We are deeply moved by the charitable auctions set up in memory of Coach Pickles, raising vital funds for Rock2Recovery.

“The generosity shown through these efforts is a true reflection of the love, respect, and lasting impact he had on so many lives. We are sincerely grateful to his family for their support in making this possible, and for allowing his legacy to continue through such meaningful work.

“The proceeds from these auctions will help bring hope and recovery to those who need it most, honoring Coach Pickles in the most fitting way. As they begin their launch night, we send our warmest wishes and heartfelt thanks, standing with them in celebration of both his life and the brighter futures these efforts will create.

A statement read out on behalf of Jurgen Dissman, Chair of Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team, said: “In November 2023, Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team were called to Crib Goch following the tragic accident in which Will sadly lost his life.

“Since then, Will’s family and friends have shown remarkable strength and determination. Through tireless fundraising and raising awareness of the work of mountain rescue, they have already raised more than £34,000. This extraordinary generosity is helping to fund a brand-new vehicle for Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team. Once in service, that vehicle will be out on the mountains, enabling the team to reach people in need.

“Like all mountain rescue teams across the UK, Llanberis is made up entirely of volunteers. Every callout depends not only on the time and commitment of those volunteers, but also on the continued generosity of the public.

“Tonight’s raffle marks another important step in honouring Will’s memory, supporting the team in their vital work, and making a real difference for everyone who comes to our mountains who need our help.

“Thank you to everyone supporting these fundraising efforts in memory of Will, and for supporting the work of Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team.

Ricky Ruddock of Lough Neagh Rescue said: “William — “Coach Pickles” — clearly had a gift for bringing people together, with energy, laughter, and a huge heart. Pickles Prizes is a brilliant reflection of that spirit — raising money in a way that feels joyful, exciting, and full of community.

“At Lough Neagh Rescue, we know how much that spirit matters. Our volunteers are out on the water day and night, ready to respond when lives are at risk. Like (Llanberis mountain rescue), the mountain rescue team who brought William home, we rely completely on public support. Every ticket bought through Pickles Prizes helps keep our boats afloat, our crews trained, and our community safe.

“What makes this so special is that it’s not just about prizes — it’s about purpose. Whether you win or not, you’re making a real difference. You’re helping save lives.

“On behalf of everyone at Lough Neagh Rescue, I want to say thank you — to William’s family and friends for creating such a meaningful legacy, and to everyone here tonight for being part of it.

“William would have loved this. And we’re proud to carry that same spirit with us every time we launch.”

The first draw took place at 11pm on Thursday.

For more details, log on to www.picklesprizes.co.uk