A charity walk is being planned to raise awareness of mental health in men and boys.

The Lads n Dads fundraiser, on Sunday, 26th March, will support the work of the Lashes Foundation.

The community-focused charity was set up in memory of 13-year-old Evie Wilson, the daughter of former Mansfield Town footballer Lee Wilson and his wife, Emma.

It wants to continue the work of caring Clipstone teenager Evie, who died in 2021.

Kelly Wilson Parkes, who is organising the walk, said: “It’s not necessarily about raising loads of money, but it’s 100% about raising awareness. We want as many people as possible to take part. Us ladies are ace at partying and raising money, so we thought something for the boys would be great.

“I’m hosting this walk with a few pub stops on the way, raising awareness of men’s mental health.

“It’s a perfect opportunity to get the boys together and children can go on bikes if they wish.

“Come on, let’s do this and let’s get everyone involved.”

Those wanting to take part are asked to donate £5 to the Lashes Foundation’s You To Be You programme.

Kelly added: “Men, it’s good to talk. Don’t be embarrassed and don’t feel ashamed.

“Our programme — Helping You To Be You — is ongoing. If you need help with your mental health, apply for a grant for six sessions of counselling completely free of charge.

“This is not means tested so anyone can apply.”

The Lads n Dads eight-mile walk will set off from Clipstone Welfare on Sunday, 26th March at 1pm. It will go to No 5 Bistro, Mansfield, and then Forest Town Arena, before returning to Clipstone Welfare.

There will be refreshment stops along the route.

It’s expected that the fundraiser will take about six hours.

Anyone wanting to take part should go to https://forms.office.com/r/AwDFfd1GM9

The Lashes Foundation, which was launched in 2021 as a tribute to Evie, now has a base in Forest Town.

It offers grants to the community to help those in need.

To find out more go to www.lashesfoundation.co.uk and its Facebook page