Our Patron of Get Into Recovery

We are proud to have Nick Bracegirdle—internationally renowned as Chicane—as our Creative Ambassador and a vital member of our leadership team. With a career that has shaped the sound of electronic music worldwide, Nick brings not only industry credibility but also a deep personal commitment to recovery. His unique perspective helps shape our community culture, inspires our guests, and strengthens our connection to the world of music, creativity, and wellbeing.

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As someone who understands both the pressures of the music industry and the transformative power of recovery, Nick brings heartfelt advocacy and lived experience to this role. His patronage supports a space where people in recovery can stabilise, reconnect, and grow — in a welcoming environment free from alcohol, judgement, or clinical barriers.

"Somerton Lodge is not a retreat or a rehab, but a hotel with a difference — a place led by people in recovery, for people in recovery". Nick’s involvement reflects his belief that recovery is not only possible, but powerful — and that with the right environment and community, anyone can rebuild a life they’re proud of.

Company Director

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Mark brings depth, warmth, and real-world insight to everything we do. A lived experience expert with many years in recovery, he’s walked multiple pathways — from mutual aid to structured programmes — and understands first hand that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to getting well.

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What sets Mark apart is his ability to connect. Whether supporting individuals one-to-one or helping shape our programmes behind the scenes, he brings empathy, clarity, and calm to the team. His knowledge isn’t theoretical — it’s earned through lived reality, personal growth, and a commitment to helping others find their way.

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Mark is more than a team member — he’s part of the reason this work matters.

Founder & CEO

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John Elford is an internationally respected 12 Step specialist and Advanced Addiction Practitioner with a track record that speaks for itself — even if he won’t. His work has been published and distributed across multiple countries, with thousands of copies of his books sold globally in several languages. Over the past decade, he has forged connections with recovery communities from the UK to the USA and beyond, including collaborations with respected clinicians, fellowships, and treatment centres.

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Though he’s the first to play it down, John’s contribution to the field is substantial. He has spoken at international conventions, developed CPD-accredited training programmes, and helped shape the way the 12 Steps are taught and understood in modern settings — always rooted in lived experience, never academic distance.

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Ask him about it and he might share a story or two — but mostly, he’s focused on what comes next.

Company Director

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Diamond John is one of our founding directors — a steady presence with over two decades in recovery. While he rarely steps into the spotlight, John has been supporting both Get Into Recovery and countless individuals behind the scenes for years. His leadership is quiet, grounded, and unwavering.

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You’re just as likely to meet John hosting a local mutual aid meeting as you are sharing stories on a nature walk. He leads by example — not by title — and brings a deep sense of integrity, patience, and kindness to our work.

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He doesn’t need recognition, but we think he deserves it.