Stop people suffering in silence – say volunteers at Budleigh Salterton Cricket Club who this week highlight the importance of talking about mental health.

On Saturday a BSCC team will complete the Dawn Walk to raise funds for The Samaritans, they will set off from the club at 7am and walk a 5km route ending with breakfast at the clubhouse.

On Thursday the club is hosting the first of its curry nights for men during which players and members of the community can get together during the Autumn/Winter months in a relaxed, welcoming setting.

Both events have been prompted by a desire from within the club community to help remove the taboo around men talking about their mental state.

Club volunteer Emma Cooling said: “Sadly many of us will know someone who has taken their own life and statistically that person is much more likely to be male. We cant change anything overnight but these events are a gentle step in the right direction of encouraging men to feel able to speak up if they are struggling. Saturday’s walk is about standing in solidarity with those who have endured tough times and of course about raising money for the Samaritans to make sure there is always someone at the end of the phone for those in need. Everyone (not just walkers ) is welcome to join us for breakfast from 8am at the club on Saturday where we’ll be holding a collection for The Samaritans and we’d love to welcome Budleigh’s menfolk to the club for our curry night on Thursday evening from 7pm, even if it’s just for a drink.”

Anyone able to sponsor the Dawn Walk and help raise money for The Samaritans should visit https://dawnwalk.samaritans.org/fundraising/team-budleigh-cc