Bethany’s Story
Bethany and her story are the driving force behind the BRF campaign. Here, Bethany’s story is told through the words of her mother, Pauline.
I, Miss Bethany Rae Fields, was born on December 9th 1997 at 3.48am in Leeds General Infirmary, to parents Mr James Anthony Fields and Mrs Pauline Andrea Fields. My mum told me many times throughout my life that the song being played at the time of my birth was ‘Perfect Day’, by Lou Reed. And it was a perfect day, the happiest day of my parents’ lives and the day we began our journey through life together as a family.
From that moment on, I was my parents' life, their reason for living and their pride and joy. I had a zest, vitality, and buoyancy from the start. A love for animals, and for the natural world and all its breathtaking beauty.
Through my parents' care, love and protection, I grew up to be a loving, kind, selfless and unjudgmental young woman. I wanted to be free to live my life, and enjoy the simple joys life brings. I was fortunate to be gifted musically, creatively, artistically and academically. I began studying Environmental Geography at York University, focusing on Glaciology and Volcanism, with the hope of one day becoming instrumental in the fight against climate change. My studies were going very well, mum and dad were very proud.
Through my charity work, based in Sowerby, I enjoyed helping disadvantaged people of all ages and abilities to be their very best. I helped improve their quality of life, boosted their self esteem, motivated and inspired them through music. We even formed a couple of bands- ‘The Outsiders’ and ‘Beat It’, who were gathering momentum and getting regular venue bookings.
It was during this time that I met a musician named Paul Crowther, who I entered into a brief relationship with. He had mental health and financial difficulties, which I tried my hardest to support and help him with, even briefly becoming his carer. We eventually separated, and this is when the threats began, threats of harm to myself, work colleagues, family, and even threats to kill me.
I sought advice and help, as did friends and family members, going to the police on several occasions to report the threats being made. I did everything I could to protect myself and others.
It was early evening on the 12th September 2019, while setting up for a music event in Huddersfield, that my life was taken by Paul Crowther.
He ended all of my hopes and dreams and aspirations for the future I had been working so hard towards. All dreams of a future life and family of my own, taken away.
My parents' hearts were broken. No, their hearts were crushed, beyond repair. A tidal wave of grief and unimaginable trauma swept over everyone who loved and cared for me, as they were faced with a future without me in it.
I had a right to live my life to its entirety. My parents and all who loved and cared for me had the right to enjoy and witness my achievements and milestones.
Why was it taken away?
I was unlucky.
I became the victim of coercion, control, narcissism and misogyny. Where was my help? My protection? My right to be heard and believed? Where was the response from the authorities I confided in? Where was the action that could have saved me? Saved the hearts of my parents and all who loved me?
Where was the help that could have saved my life?
Since I was killed, I have seen my life deliberated over by legal professionals. I have seen my murder become manslaughter, and 36 years become 12. I have seen my parents struggle, trying to navigate a situation no parent ever should, with little support or guidance. I have heard them become voiceless in rooms of unhearing legal professionals, trying to make sense of the injustices I and they have faced. But now I hear them getting louder, and I feel them fighting back. Fighting for change to protect those that need it most, fighting against a system that is not working.
Fighting to make sure no more victims’ cries go unheard.
