Family and friends of tragic Brimington man step up fundraising for mental health

The death of 39-year-old James Farrow sparked a mission by those closest to him to raise awareness of mental health issues.

In the three months since James, who was nicknamed Dodge, passed away the fundraisers have collected more than £4,000.

A football match at Staveley Miners Welfare on Saturday, August 21, at 6pm has been organised by Richard Guy and Deano Owen to boost the appeal.

Rachel Farrow, who is married to James’ brother Ben, said: “All are welcome to come and watch and see how a community has come together to support such an under funded charity and i hope whatever we raise will go towards helping others.

"Dodge was an amazing person, the kindest and most caring soul who always wanted to help people and would always listen to anyone with mental health problems. He would be so proud of what we have achieved.

"Mental health is passionate to our hearts and especially for Dodge too.”

James’ family and friends launched their fundraising with a 100-mile walk and cycle challenge throughout June. Rachel said: “We achieved it early on as we had many family and friends doing it.”

"Another family member, Chloe Hawkins, is doing a skydive, which is what Dodge always wanted to do.

"Next year we have 15 people doing the Tough Mudder challenge to keep raising money.”

On the gofundme page set up for the appeal, Rachel says: “Me, Ben and his family have decided to raise money for mental health in men. It’s heartbreaking that we have to say that Ben's family have lost a son, grandson, dad, brother, uncle to mental health battles.

“Mental health affects so many people, men and women, every single day, but more so men who don't either talk about it or get the right help for it which is why myself, Ben and his family would like to raise money in memory of Dodge and to also try and prevent this from happening to others.”

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