Being an 'Old Knacker' saved my life, says player

Sean O'Doherty said Old Knackers FC helped to "put his life on track"

A man who fell into depression after his family broke up has said joining a football team saved his life.

Sean O'Doherty, 41, said he had no-one to turn to and was "caught up in the bravado of hiding my feelings".

But when a friend asked him to take part in a charity football match found himself joining Old Knackers FC in Preston.

"Little did I know that this football match would change my life forever," he said.

About 40 men now regularly attend the club in Preston

Old Knackers FC was set up by Neil Proctor to help men aged over 35 improve their physical fitness, support each other's mental wellbeing, and raise money for charity.

"The lads in my experience who play football don't tend to open up readily about mental issues and mental wellness," Mr Proctor said.

"This is an outlet and if somebody's struggling, there's somebody there to talk."

Neil Proctor said the mixed ability club was a place for men to find support

The club, which started with 12 players and now sees 40 men regularly take part, has been nominated for a BBC Make a Difference Award.

Mr O'Doherty said the group had transformed his life and given him focus.

"Seeing everybody around me and hearing about their experiences, it gives you that confidence to speak out," he said.

"When you suddenly realise that you don't need to deal with it all by yourself, your whole world changes.

"I felt the burdens of my life lift off my shoulders, just talking with lads who were going through issues just like me.

"It was a big part of saving my life and putting my life on track.

"The best thing you'll ever do is talk about your problems."