A TOWER of strength in the shape of a totem pole helped mark World Mental Health Day in Bolton.

Dozens of people who attend seven drop-in centres throughout Bolton created the totem pole that aimed to illustrate the importance of self-help.

The Mayor and Mayoress of Bolton, Cllr Eric Johnson and his wife Ida unveiled the colourful and creative totem pole in Bolton's Victoria Square.

The Bolton Association and Network of Drop-in Centres (BAND) co-ordinated the building of the totem pole that was based on an idea by supporters Mirron Buczynskyj and Martin Hadfield.

Andy Hazeldine, BAND's manager, said: "This is the largest craft project we have ever undertaken. There are a lot of people who are incredibly talented among our members and we were looking for an opportunity to display their skills."

Each drop-in centre built a section of the totem pole.

Mr Hazeldine explained that the pole and the supporting exhibition - also held at Victoria Square - aimed to raise awareness of mental illness.

According to statistics published by the Mental Health Foundation one in four people will seek help this year as a result of a mental health problem.

BAND has helped mark World Mental Health Day for the past three years. The event is part of Minds Do Matter Week.

Other events as part of the week included a concert, a karaoke night and an arts and crafts exhibition.

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