Shropshire soldier handcuffed to medicine ball for mental health

Johnny Bradley said the medicine ball represented the burden of mental health

A Shropshire soldier has been handcuffed to a 5kg (11lb) medicine ball for more than three weeks to raise awareness of mental health.

Johnny Bradley, from Donnington, is also hoping to raise £1,000 for Combat Stress and the Army Benevolent Fund.

Mr Bradley said the medicine ball represents the burden of mental health.

"You can't set it down and walk away," he said. "It's a constant burden, you carry it with you."

He added: "The only way to get rid of that burden is by actively seeking support and having open discussions about it."

He initially intended to do the challenge for a week, but is now three weeks in.

The unusual appendage has led to a number of people approaching him to discuss the challenge.

'Amazing conversations'

Mr Bradley said the conversations that had arisen had been "amazing" and included people who had opened up about their own mental wellbeing.

The challenge was set up by soldier Andy Unwin who wanted to raise awareness of mental health.

About 300 other people have taken part to date, Mr Bradley said.

He is now close to his target and looking forward to being unshackled.

"I'm looking forward to getting it off, but at the same time I'm going to miss it," he said.