A DRAMA graduate has helped to raise £1,400 for a mental health charity by staging two theatre shows shining a light on anxiety and depression.

Ben Maytham, from Colchester, held two fundraising nights with all proceeds going to mental health charity Mind at the Manifest Theatre, in Manningtree.

The 28-year-old, who suffered with depression and anxiety in his early twenties, directed and starred in the shows on April 5 and April 6.

The productions saw a selection of talent from across the county performing plays, sketches, stand-up comedy and songs with connections to mental health.

Ben also wrote his first play which highlighted struggles with depression and anxiety, and a scene from his script was staged to the audience on both nights.

The fundraising nights raised a total of £1,400 for mid and north Essex Mind, which is being handed to the charity on May 2.

Ben said: “It was a very nervewracking few months with lots to organise and sort out, but I am so incredibly happy that both nights for a Night for Charity were a roaring success with almost sell-out shows.

“All the performers’ talents and commitment shone through and gave the audience a night to remember.”

He thanked local writer Grif Scott who acted a both emotional support and a rock to Ben when he was tackling his own mental health issues.

Ben said: “With a packed audience on both nights and about 20 odd performers including local actors Shane Whitworth, Claire Walkinshaw and Helen Bridge we managed to raise a fantastic amount for Mind.

“The theatre itself gave every single penny made from the nights to the charity.

“I am so grateful and glad that friends, families and local supporters from the charity came from across the region and supported not only the charity but us performers, most of whom have had personal experience with mental health.

“If the nights I organised and the money we have given to the charity help save someone’s life and help them with the struggle then all of what we did has been worth it.

“It’s okay not to be okay. And it’s okay for men and women alike to ask for help.

“And if we helped anyone in the audience speak up and say I need help then I did my job.”