Rugby club backs drive on men's mental health

Marie-Louise Robinson, from Hull and East Yorkshire Mind, with Simon Hornby, of Driffield RUFC

A rugby club has raised thousands of pounds to fund mental health support for men.

Driffield RUFC has teamed up with Hull and East Yorkshire Mind for a second year after donating nearly £10,000.

It follows the death of Ollie Robinson-Booth, who worked at the club and took his own life aged 21.

Simon Hornby, the club chairman, said: "When Ollie passed away in 2023, the club really pulled together to try and make a difference and raise as much money as possible to go towards this fantastic charity."

Driffield RUFC has been working with the charity for over a year.

The club has hosted charity match days and festivals, while more than 30 members raised almost £3,500 by taking part in the Movember challenge.

Mr Hornby said: "If the money we have raised can help at least one person, we have reached our own goal."

Marie-Louise Robinson, a community fundraiser at Hull and East Yorkshire Mind, said the charity was "deeply moved" by the club's contributions.

"Their efforts not only raised an incredible amount of money but also sent a powerful message about the importance of mental health and supporting one another," she added.

"Ollie's story is a heart-breaking reminder of why this work is so important and the way the club and community have rallied together in his memory is truly inspiring."

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