FOOTBALL fans with mental health issues have used the power of the sport to help them break the blues.

'Blokes United' have been training at Witton Park Academy in Blackburn since February and helps those recovering from mental health and addiction problems.

The team is a spin-off from the Social Inclusion Football League (SIFL), run by Blackburn-based social inclusion service Creative Support, at the Blackburn Rovers Indoor Centre (BRIC).

And the team are currently playing in their first season in the league, which sees teams travelling from Wigan, Preston, Bolton and Derby, to play twice a month at BRIC, with the help of Blackburn Rovers Community Trust

'Blokes United', who originate from Hull, was founded and formed by former professional footballer Jamie Barnwell-Edinboro.

But after Jamie approached the Creative Support Group having been impressed with their work, the idea for a 'Blokes United' team in Blackburn came about.

Since February, the group has had 28 training sessions so far and has continued to grow, making its debut in the SIFL in August.

Wayne Beck was one of the founders of the Blackburn team, along with Paul Davies, Paul Hardman and Cathryn O'Meara.

Wayne, who is a coach and player at 'Blokes United' and has had bipolar since the age of 15, said: "We've used the power of football to bring people together of all ages and backgrounds and with all kinds of issues.

"I've had bipolar from a young age and have tried medication and all the therapies going but there's been no better therapy than being involved with this.

"It's helped me a lot."

And the idea has attracted the support of Michael Hales, landlord of The Butlers Arms in Pleasington,who has paid for the group's session throughout this year.

Since the weekly training sessions started, the team has gone from seven men attending to 30 to 40 a week, aged between 17 to 54 and from all backgrounds.

Wayne, 42, of Pendle Drive, Blackburn, said: "To say its grown is a massive understatement.

"People come for all different reasons, to get out the house, meet new people and friends, for fitness and fun.

"We've seen confidence, fitness, self belief and health improve massively."

The project has seen four people pass the mental health first aid course while a 'Girls United' team for women has also been set-up.

He added: "I would encourage anyone to attend and get involved and we're looking for funding so we can train next year and hopefully expand to Darwen, so any support from local businesses would be welcome."

To get involved, contact Wayne Beck on waynebeck1976@hotmail.com.