By Mamie Colfox

Bands will play at a fundraiser in Dorchester tonight to raise awareness of men’s mental health and in memory of a “kind and caring” volunteer.

Dorchester Arts and Dorset Volunteer Centre have joined forces to celebrate the life of Andy Jacobs, a committed volunteer for both organisations, through an evening of words and music at the Corn Exchange.

Funds from the 'Brave Face' event will go towards mental health charity Dorset Mind.

The event has been organised by Andy’s mother to keep his memory alive whilst also raising money for an important cause.

She said: “Andrew volunteered for a number of years in various roles at Dorchester Arts and Volunteer Centre. He was a very kind, caring and gentle soul, always thinking about other people."

She went on to talk about Andy’s creativity: “As a very creative and artistic person himself, he appreciated what a difference art and music makes to people’s lives, so it’s really important to keep his memory alive in a positive way”.

Rather than always having to put on a ‘brave face’, the title of the event highlights how important providing support for men struggling with mental health is.

Louise Regan of Dorset Mind said: “We need to break down the stigma and normalize mental health. We are happy to talk about our physical health yet many of us still struggle to open up about our mental heath”.

There will be an exciting line up of bands for the event: Cuba Libre, Nick Tatham and Andy Grant, which reflect Andy’s eclectic taste in music. There will also be readings from people Andy knew.

As well as brilliant music, pop-up barbershop Seventh Seal will be on hand, and Dorset Mind will be available to talk about the several support groups on offer because everyone deserves to ask for help.

The event will take place tonight at Dorchester Corn Exchange at 8pm.

Tickets cost £7. Tickets for members of Dorchester Arts, under 18s or those on low income are available from the Dorchester Arts box office on 01305 266926, or in person at the Corn Exchange. For online tickets go to dorchesterarts.org.uk