SUPPORTERS of Thurrock & Brentwood Mind and Basildon Mind have been trekking across the region today (Saturday, 23 August), fundraising for the charities.

14 walkers set off from Basildon Mind's Charity Shop at 10am, planning to walk around 12 miles to Thurrock & Brentwood Mind's head office in Grays.

Thurrock Nub News caught up with them as they travelled through Stanford-le-Hope.

Leading the walk is Jamie Andalucia-Brown, 46, who says Mind charities dragged him back from the darkest place.

Jamie contracted both Covid and Long Covid and had to leave his job.

He says: "During this time, I sought help from Basildon Mind and had therapy for more than 26 weeks. Without having this help I would have been nowhere and believe I would have gone further downhill.

"Through accessing recovery support locally I discovered new friends, all accessing support through the two local Minds in Thurrock & Brentwood and Basildon.

"We decided in the recovery group that we wanted to give back and wanted to raise money for both.

"We decided through our passion for music that we would arrange a fundraising weekend consisting of a muci svent at the Ship in Little Thurrock and the sponsored walk.

"My hope from this weekend is to raise much-needed funds, create awareness of mental health; breaking down stigma, encouraging those struggling to seek help and finally bring our communities toether."

A spokesperson said: "If you're nearby, please give them a wave, a cheer, or a smile of encouragement as they take on this challenge!

"Every step they take helps us support more people with their mental health. If you'd like to show your support, you can make a small donation via their fundraising page here: https://basmind.enthuse.com/.../mindaid-sponsored-wal...