A CHARITY cricket match will be taking place next month to raise funds for South East and Central Essex Mind.

The clash will take place at Southchurch Park on Sunday August 16 and will see Southend & EMT facing Run Free in a fun fixture which will get underway at 2pm.

And joint match organiser Chris Phillips is looking forward to a memorable match.

“It’s going to be a great day and we hope to get as many people involved as possible to spread awareness and hopefully raise a bit of money as well,” said Phillips.

“I’ve hardly played cricket since leaving school so I don’t think it’s going to be a cricketing classic but it’s just about spreading the word really and it’s going to be fun.”

Run Free was set up earlier this year to help mental health sufferers through the power of sport.

Their podcast has already included interviews with Olympic champions Kelly Holmes and Callum Skinner as well as legendary sprint hurdler Colin Jackson and former badminton star Gail Emms.

A football team has also been formed as a support network for those who have been struggling and training sessions with former Southend United manager Steve Tilson and current striker Charlie Kelman have already taken place.

Tilson will now be taking part in the cricket match, which is free to attend.

And organisers hope to make it a match to remember.

“It’s great that Steve Tilson has volunteered to play and we’re hoping to get a few more well known people involved,” said Phillips.

“There will be a raffle to raise funds for Mind who I’m sure everyone know do great things for mental health sufferers but if anyone else wants to get involved, especially a sponsor, that would be brilliant.”

And Southend’s Scott Elliott is also pleased to be involved.

“We’re looking forward to the game and also helping such a good cause,” said Elliott.

“Matches like this are always good fun and I’m sure this one will be as well.

“Hopefully we can get a few people over to watch.”

For more details email chris.phillips@newsquest.co.uk