HALESOWEN MP James Morris will take part in his third London Marathon this year to raise money for a good cause.

The MP is running in the event on October 3rd to raise money for local mental health charity Dudley Mind.

Dudley Mind offers a service across the Black Country, with opportunities for service users to talk about their difficulties or experiences with others who have been through similar.

Groups include support for anxiety, depression and bipolar, as well as activity groups for walking, running, horticulture and hypnotherapy, and are based in a new hub at the Bushey Fields Hospital Estate in Dudley.

James had been due to run the marathon last year but it was postponed due to the Covid 19 outbreak, with the rearranged marathon last October open only to professional competitors.

He said: "It was disappointing not to take part in last year’s marathon, but the lockdown over the winter months has given me more time to train and hopefully I’ll be ready to set a new personal best by the time it comes round in October!

"Mental health has long been an issue close to my heart and I’m delighted to be supporting Dudley Mind. They do incredible work to support local people, and services like these have been more needed than ever during the past year.

"I know that they will be grateful for all proceeds that are raised."

Sandra Vaughan, CEO of Dudley Mind, said: "It is fantastic that James has chosen to raise money for us in this way.

"As a small mental health charity we are very reliant on fundraising and donations to enable us to support people to cope with the pressures of Covid and life in general.

"We all have mental health and at times we need a little help.

"This money could be helping to support you."

James ran the marathon in 2018 to raise money for Halas Homes and in 2019 for Ups and Downs.

Anyone who wishes to sponsor James should head to his JustGiving page at James Morris MP is fundraising for Dudley Mind (justgiving.com)