Simon moves through life with a deep connection to nature and a love for simplicity. Cornwall’s natural beauty has shaped his journey, with surfing becoming not just a passion, but a source of calm and reflection. His work keeps him grounded, blending creativity with hands-on craftsmanship in harmony with the outdoors. Thoughtful and in tune with the world around him, Simon finds inspiration in nature and those close to him. He embraces the beauty of small moments, living authentically and staying close to the ocean, the place that continually brings him peace and balance.
Read more about Simon below.
How old are you, Simon?
Currently I’m 35 years young.
Where did you grow up?
I started life in the Cotswolds but was fortunate to move to Cornwall with my dad when I was 13. Since then, I have lived and breathed the Cornish way of life and class this as home.
Do you have a favourite wave, can you describe it?
My favourite wave around home doesn’t break all too often but when it does it’s a slabby set up with some fairly solid right wedges in shallow water, and plenty of wildlife to keep you on your toes.
If you could only have two boards what would they be?
Hmm, that’s a tricky one as my shaper Andy at Seduction Surfboards makes some amazing boards. For the good waves it would have to be the “weapon” a high-performance twin fin. And for the less favourable days I’d have my trusty "mid ting" which is a cruisey mid-length twin fin. I love twin fins.
How do you make a living?
Currently make my living as a stone mason focusing largely on listed building renovations but before that spent many a year in and around the outdoor adventure scene. Unfortunately, that line of work although amazing wasn’t good from a financial standpoint and I really wanted to set down some roots for me and my partner. I chose stonemasonry because it keeps me outdoors and active whilst allowing my creative thought process to be tested.
Do you have any other hobbies?
I have very few hobbies these days spending most of my time focused on progressing my surfing, creating content, and enjoying nature with my partner and pooch. I do have a keen interest in Mycology though and always find time to forage and learn.
I also have a big love for birds, in particular Ravens and if one is nearby, you will find me trying to get their attention through vocal clicks.
When did you start surfing?
I’ve been surfing full time since 2001 when I first moved to Newquay with my Dad, but I had my first taster on a trip to Australia in 1998 and seemed to take quite naturally to it thanks to a childhood spent on skateboards.
How has surfing impacted your life?
Since I moved to Cornwall and was able to fully immerse myself in the surf it has always been a safe space for me. Suffering from severe depression and social anxiety’s growing up I found it hard to integrate. Surfing has allowed me to escape those pressure and figure myself out whilst still allowing me the chances to meet new people and feel part of a community.
Who inspires you the most?
There are many people who inspire me in this world but one of the biggest inspirations would be my partner, Chelsea. She is always pushing me to chase my dreams and has helped me to deal with the various mental hurdles that impact my life. From a surfing standpoint I’ve always drawn inspiration from the more progressive surfers who have constantly pushed the sport to new realms of possibilities. My top 5 would be Bruce Irons, Mick Fanning, Dane Reynolds, Nathan Fletcher and John Florence.
Any final Words of wisdom?
Life is fragile and life can be short so make the most of every opportunity you can. Take time to enjoy the little things and never be afraid to follow your own path!
