A MEN'S mental health charity in Heckmondwike has received a funding boost after being awarded £5,000.

Luke's Lads was set up in memory of local man Luke Naylor who took his own life last year after battling mental health issues and depression.

The charity offers support to men going through mental health issues and is a free service designed to engage men through fitness and encourage them to speak out about their problems.

Based at the Timestep Studio in Heckmondwike, the charity has gone from strength to strength since its inception and was awarded £5,000 last week from the Arriva Community Fund.

Batley and Spen MP Tracy Brabin has praised the initiative. She said: “Suicide is the single biggest killer of young men so the work of charities like Luke’s Lads in offering support and a friendly ear is incredibly important.

“Mental health provision across our nation is sadly lacking with many unable to access the support they desperately need so we are fortunate to have a local charity dedicated to breaking down barriers and removing the stigma surrounding men’s mental health.

“I can’t praise the charity highly enough for how they’ve turned such a tragedy into something positive – it really could make a huge difference to those who are suffering.”

Find out more about the charity at lukeslads.co.uk.