Reaction from the field
In a heartfelt ceremony that underscored the power of love and resilience, James Lewis, 53, married Ed Otter in London on March 24, 2026. The event was not just a celebration of their union but also a testament to Lewis’s remarkable journey, having survived two cardiac arrests in the past decade. The wedding, attended by 50 guests, was a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the strength found in companionship.
Lewis, who has been a patron of the Born Free Foundation for 24 years and founded Bamfords Auctioneers in 2002, has faced significant health challenges. On his wedding day, his heart rate spiked to over 250 beats per minute, a stark reminder of his past cardiac issues. “I’ve had two cardiac arrests. I had one in 2013 and I had another one in 2019,” Lewis shared, reflecting on his journey to this moment.
The couple’s love story began 15 years ago when they met while playing pool in a local pub in Derbyshire. Lewis, who has a 17-year-old daughter named Arabella, expressed his joy at blending families, stating, “Arabella says, which one of you is going to walk me up the aisle when I get married?” This sentiment highlights the deep bond forming between Lewis, Otter, and Arabella, who now affectionately calls both men ‘Dad’.
Initially, Lewis and Otter considered eloping to Yellowstone National Park, but they ultimately chose to celebrate their love surrounded by family and friends. “Was it love at first sight? Pretty much, yeah. I had split up from my wife, my daughter’s mum. And I was just ready,” Lewis remarked, emphasizing the significance of this new chapter in his life.
The wedding ceremony was filled with emotional moments, reflecting the couple’s journey together. Lewis’s health struggles have only strengthened their bond, with Otter supporting him through thick and thin. “He and Arabella get on so well. I’m very lucky,” Otter expressed, highlighting the harmonious relationship they have built as a family.
As they embark on this new journey together, the couple’s story resonates with many, serving as a reminder of the importance of love and support in the face of adversity. Lewis’s commitment to the Born Free Foundation and his successful career with Bamfords Auctioneers further illustrate his dedication to making a positive impact in the world.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any future plans for the couple, but their wedding marks a significant milestone in both their lives. As they navigate the complexities of family life and health challenges, the love between James Lewis and Ed Otter shines brightly, inspiring those around them.