A FORMER Bewdley resident will take an emotional walk in support of a charity which helped him in his darkest hour.

Joe Elliott, aged 25, will be walking 126 miles from London back to his hometown Bewdley next month to raise money for mental health charity, Mind.

Last year, Joe had a serious bout of mental health illness which led to him being sectioned. But he received a lot of support and advice from the charity, prompting him to want to give something back to them.

He will complete the walk while carrying the tent he will be sleeping in on his back and is set to be joined along the way by friends and family who themselves have suffered mental health issues.

He has been living in Holloway in London for the last three years but grew up in Bewdley.

Joe, who works in advertising, said: “Last year, I was sectioned under the metal health act. This was a dark, lonely and daunting experience that will stay with me forever.

“The one factor of the whole experience that has stayed with me more than anything is the incredible support that so many individuals give to those in their hours of need, expecting absolutely nothing in return.

“Mind provides crucial advice, unwavering support and free assistance to people who are often experiencing the most venerable periods of their lives; people suffering from conditions varying from minor anxiety to suicidal depression.

“I want to give something back to such people and I want to raise as much money as possible for Mind “This is so that everyone suffering from mental illnesses continue to receive the absolutely crucial, often life saving support that Mind provide.

“There is still a certain stigma attached to mental health - this has to be smashed.

“Nobody should have to suffer in silence, and as people who I was in hospital with would often mention in passing comment, this is so often the case unfortunately.

“I was blessed to have friends, family and an employer who gave me unwavering support throughout my experience - from the point of me falling ill to me returning to work with my health back. Many are not so lucky.”

Anyone who would like to support Joe on his efforts can visit his Just Giving page here.