A CRICKET match to raise awareness of mental health issues made more than £400 for SECE Mind.

The 30 over match between Southend & EMT and Run Free, a mental health support group, took place at Southchurch Park on Sunday.

And Run Free co-founder Chris Phillips was delighted with how the day went.

“It was another great afternoon and the most important thing was to once again spread the message about what we do and to get people talking about their mental health,” said Chris.

“It was a bit of a fun but it’s always good to play against Southend & EMT because we have a great partnership with them.

“It’s a good laugh when we get together and this was no different.

“We thank them again for their support and for hosting us for another game.

“It was great to see so many smiles on show and it was quite an entertaining game as well.

“The weather just about held out too.”

Southend & EMT made 156/9 in their innings with Scott Elliott top scoring with 44 not out while man of the match Luke Clarke added 35.

Run Free skipper Ryan Creasey took 3/17 with the ball while Chris Phillips took 2/5. In reply, Run Free scored 162 for the loss of 11 wickets. Eddy Cooper hit 43 while Harry and Luke Clarke took three wickets each for Southend.