Coast to Coast success for TOG Mind

Two intrepid local fundraisers have walked across England to raise awareness of mental health and gather vital funds for Tameside, Oldham and Glossop Mind.

We reported in August this year on Peter Keenan and Jay Hallows' fantastic fundraiser, and their plan to complete the full Coast to Coast walk in 10 days.

Individual branches of Mind (there are over 100 in England and Wales) are responsible for their own fundraising, so local help is always needed and hugely appreciated.

Both Peter and Jay completed the full 182 mile hike on time, finishing at Robin Hood Bay, having raised £967 for National Mind and £870 for local branch Tameside, Oldham and Glossop Mind.

Peter said: “We did this mainly to raise awareness.

"I suffer and am still struggling to this day.

"I hope our efforts help ensure others have access to help."

It’s clear there was time for thought and reflection during the hike, with Jay adding: “We know that small steps forward help each day.

"Don't suffer alone, talk and it will help.

"This walk helped me face up to what I needed to do." 

Special thanks have already gone out to a range of individuals and local businesses who supported the fundraiser, including several local bars and public houses in Mossley (the Commercial, the Butchers Arms and the Britannia Inn) as well as colleagues at Northern Rail, and of course friends and family.

Jason, who’s worked with TOG Mind for over four years, said: “We’re so appreciative of local support and the guys have done an absolutely amazing job.

"We’ve been providing local wellbeing services and training for over 40 years, but this year fundraising has taken a big hit due to the current crisis.

"Help like this goes a long way to ensuring more support for more people at a local level."

If you or anyone you know would like to access support or training with TOG Mind or get involved with fundraising, please call their office on 0161 330 9223, visit the website at: https://www.togmind.org/home or check out the Tameside, Oldham and Glossop Mind Facebook fundraiser page here

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