A WOMAN from Burnley who has been affected by mental health has challenged herself to a year off the booze.

Rachael Batson, 47, is raising awareness of the charity whilst reducing her alcohol intake over the year.

She started her journey on July 31 and hopes to reach a £2,000 target.

Rachael said: “I have chosen to do this as I feel this year more than ever, a lot of awareness needs to be raised around mental health and that it’s okay to not be okay.”

Rachael has been busy fundraising over the past few years since losing a loved one in 2014 which caused her to suffer with her mental health.

She said: “For six years I have been an avid fundraiser for various charities, whether it was doing a 5k run or going sober for a month.

“So this time around, I wanted to really push my boundaries, challenge myself and raise money for MIND in the process.”

The charity offers support to those with mental health worries.

The mental health charity has found that hundreds of people who have tried to access mental health support during lockdown have been unable to get the help they need.

Rachael added: “My sons and close friends have been a huge support to me being there in times of need, not everyone is as lucky as me so I want to raise awareness that mental health is a huge problem and the support networks like MIND are a vital part of society to help vulnerable people in times of need. I still continue my personal fight as do many others of society so dig deep and show your support for this massive cause.”

Are you a charity champion? Fill in this form to let us know what you're up to.