HEALTH campaigner Richard O'Neill mingled with ministers on a trip to Westminster for the launch of a parliamentary group dedicated to male welfare.

Richard, of Tamworth Drive, Brandlesholme, is an executive member of the Men's Health Forum campaign group and was invited to London for the launch.

The group of MPs aim to raise awareness of men's issues and will examine Government policies on healthcare for men.

During his visit, Richard (39) spoke with health minister Yvette Cooper about plans for a national men's health awareness week and met members of the group itself.

After campaigning for six years on the issue, hypnotherapist Richard believes the launch is a landmark. "The idea is to get men's health firmly on the Government agenda and to get all political parties to work together." he said.

"We blokes aren't very good at looking after ourselves. It's a cultural thing really that we're trying to overcome.

"We're not brought up to take an interest in our own health, whereas I think women are.

"Big boys don't cry and when we have something wrong, we don't want to talk about it because we think we're invincible."

Among the issues that Richard and the Men's Health Forum have campaigned on are:

Development of evening, weekend and drop-in services for men working during the week.

Better targeting of health promotion campaigns towards men.

Establishment of internet and confidential telephone advice services.

Investment for research into areas seen as neglected, such as prostate disease.

More resources targeted at vulnerable groups such as young men and those from ethnic minorities.