A VILLAGE pantomime group raised a show-stopping £1,500 for local mental health charity Mind in Bradford.

The cast and crew of Addingham Pantomime Group gave the money raised from their last production to Mind in Bradford as the charity is close to the hearts of some members.

They wanted to emphasise the message that it is important to talk about mental health, as mental illness affects about one in four people.

Sarah Griffin, production manager, said the cast and crew found that being part of the pantomime had a positive impact on them and especially on the mental health of a number of the team.

“As a group, we find that it’s helped our mental health. Working as a team is good. This is a cause that is close to the hearts of several members of the crew,” she said.

Mind in Bradford offers advice, help and support to anyone struggling with emotional or mental health difficulties or distress. It operates across the Bradford and Craven districts.

It offers a wide variety of free groups and activities, all staffed by mental health poractitioners, from its base at Kenburgh House, 28 Manor Row, Bradford. No referral or diagnosis is needed, and well-being groups do not have waiting lists.

There is also a confidential telephone helpline open every day of the year from noon to 9pm on 01274 594594, which is staffed by experienced counsellors. For help in a crisis, contact First Response on 01274 221181 for a referral to crisis care, such as the Sanctuary service at Mind in Bradford, which is open every day from 6pm to 1am.

This year’s Addingham panto is Treasure Island and rehearsals are in full swing for the spectacular show.

There will be eight performances, including two matinees, at Addingham Memorial Hall from Friday, February 15 to Saturday, February 23.

See www.mindinbradford.org.uk or ring 01274 730815 for more information.

For panto tickets, you can book online at https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/Addingham-pantomime-group