A RUNNER is hoping to tackle the stigma of male mental health and domestic abuse by completing six half marathons in as many months.

Vince Norris, from Burghfield, has previously been in an abusive relationship and is still dealing with the effects of the physical and mental torment to this day.

The 21-year-old is still waiting for specialist treatment to help overcome his pain, while using exercise as a coping strategy.

The former Theale Green School pupil is hoping to raise £1,000 for ManKind through a series of races, starting in Hackney on May 20.

He said: "Men in particular struggle to speak out due to societal norms. Unfortunately, we live in a world where men are consistently being told to 'man up'.

"This is extremely dangerous and we need to be encouraging men to share their feelings. Especially those that are experiencing domestic abuse.

"After an excruciating 18 months consisting of a lot of mental and physical torment, I found a way out. The effects of what happened to me are still rife in my day-to-day life.

"I want to challenge myself while making a difference to help people that are going through domestic abuse."

ManKind Initiative is a domestic violence charity, which provides victims with emotional and practical support.

Although some forms of abuse can be physical and obvious, many men and women do not know they are involved in an abusive relationship.

Visit: http://bit.ly/2oaBjDQ to make a donation to the online fundraising page.