BOXING legend Frank Bruno will speak about his battle with mental illness at an event organised by a Worcester charity.

The former World Heavyweight Champion is due to host a fundraising evening for Onside, a charity for disabled and vulnerable adults, at the Chateau Impney, in Droitwich, on November 29.

Onside hopes to raise £25,000 at the event in a bid to help it cope with increasing demand.

Frank Bruno told the Worcester News: “After retiring from boxing over 20 years ago, I never thought that people would still be booking me for events and people would still buy tickets for these nights out.

“After my first breakdown in 2003 I never thought that 15 years later I would be seen as a mental health ambassador but I’m really glad that I can be the voice of the many thousands of sufferers and their carers across the UK speaking out against the treatment dished out to mental health patients.

“I’m looking forward to the night in the Midlands where we can recount some stories about my career about my constant fight concerning mental health and I’m looking forward to meeting old friends and hopefully making some new ones.”

The fighter has been sectioned multiple times since his retirement, as a result of his bipolar disorder.

Kate Harvey, chief executive of the charity, said: “We are delighted that Frank Bruno is supporting the work of Onside at this fantastic event.

“His tireless efforts to raise understanding of mental health issues and breakdown barriers is totally in tune with Onside’s aims, objectives and the work that we do.”

Onside has recently experienced an increase in demand, following cuts to charities and local services.

There will be a three-course dinner at the event, with individual tickets costing £70.

To book a ticket email emma.powell@onside-advocacy.org.uk