Darlington man to lead mental health walk in town

James Harker, who organised a walk in Darlington last year after struggling through a ‘year of hell' wanted to recreate the event to give people another opportunity to get involved.

More than 50 people took part in last year’s walk.

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He said: “We had a decent response last time but a lot of people said they couldn’t make it.

"We’re walking to raise awareness about mental health because it’s still tough times for people.

"There are a hell of a lot of people suffering out there and there are people who are scared to ask for help."

He added: "I've got a broad circle of friends and I know I still feel alone in dark times. We want to show people they are not alone."

He has also set up the Facebook group Darlington Mental Health Support where people can talk and support each other.

More than 500 people have joined the group.

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He added: “We are just a place to go where people can know they are not alone.”

The walk starts at Blackwell Green at 1pm on Saturday.

People are invited to take part in the three-mile walk and wear something green as a nod to the green ribbon, the international symbol for mental health awareness. 

Anyone who would like to join is asked to meet on the green, outside the Spar shop

Representatives from Red Balloons, a physical and mental wellbeing organisation in Stockton will also be attending to provide professional support to anyone who would like it.

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