Stockport footballers ready for marathon six-a-side mental health charity challenge

Charitable footballers in Stockport are taing part in a twelve-hour six-a-side soccer marathon to raise money for men’s mental health.

Proceeds from the challenge will go to StrongMen, a men’s mental health charity to help those going through personal struggle and bereavement.

Organiser Joe Farrell has enlisted the help of 17 mates from his Monday night football group to raise money and awareness for a cause close to his heart, setting an initial target of £1000.

"I’ve struggled with mental health all my life, and it has been something that I have really had to try and understand," said Joe.

“I think men’s mental health is a cause that is very much on everybody’s mind, especially at the moment, and it is nice to be able to do something about it and try to make a positive impact."

Elliot Aked was one of the founders of the group three years ago, and he is proud of how the group has evolved over this time.

"It is a real mix of people," said Elliott. "Joe is my cousin and I’ve brought lads down from work. There are all the Irish lads that know each other from playing Gaelic football and within the Irish community.

“Since joining the group, we have been able to go out and socialise with each other, with the odd drink here or there.”

Elliott is a student teacher and has taught his pupils the importance of opening up about their problems. He wants to help lessen the stigma around men doing the same thing.

He said: "I know we have all been affected by, if not directly, someone in your family or a friend that has struggled with their mental health, so I just think it is something that we can all relate to."

"If we can help make a positive impact for this cause or within the community, that would be great; that is what we