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I knew I had to step in to fulfil my friend’s dying promise when things looked bleak

Matt Unwin came friends with Mike Oldfield through their love of Everton FC

By Danny Gutmann · Liverpool Echo

Published: Friday, 16 October 2026 at 4:30 AM

Key Things to Know

Matt Unwin fulfilled a dying promise to his friend Mike Oldfield by taking in Mike's son Josh.
Josh had served as a full-time carer for his father for nearly a decade following his mother's death.
Matt's decision to offer support was inspired by taking part in Everton in the Community's Sleepout event.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Everton supporter Matt Unwin took in his late friend Mike Oldfield's son, Josh, to fulfill a promise made before Mike died of cancer. The two men originally bonded 15 years ago on the Everton fan forum Toffee Talk, remaining close friends until Mike's passing shortly after Everton's final match at Goodison Park in 2024.

Josh had spent nearly a decade serving as his father's full-time carer following his mother's death, leaving him without basic independent living skills. Inspired by Everton in the Community's Sleepout charity event, Matt, his wife Candice, and daughter Eleanor supported Josh, who now lives independently nearby while seeking employment.

Read the full article on Liverpool Echo

I knew I had to step in to fulfil my friend’s dying promise when things looked bleak

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