A PORTLAND freemason and DJ will be delivering 48 hours of disco to raise money for a charity close to his heart. 

Ben Hadwin will start his challenge on March 31 in aid of Andy's Man Club on the isle, which helps men with their mental health within the construction industry. 

Mr Hadwin, who has suffered mental health problems of his own, works for MKM Building Supplies.

He has been DJing for more than 20 years and will be taking on his challenge at The Lugger Inn, a family pub in West Street, Chickerell.

"I work for MKM Building supplies and each year we choose a new charity. This year we have chosen Andy’s Man Club Portland. This is to help with men’s mental health, especially within the construction industry," Mr Hadwin said.

"Just over a year ago I had a mental breakdown which turned my life upside down, I was very lucky to have my wife, close family and friends around me to get me through the darkest days of my life.

"Unfortunately, some men do not have that support network or feel they can talk to their partner or friends. This is where Andy’s Man Club comes in.

"They host a meeting every Monday at The Beehive Portland for men to drop in and just listen or have a chat over a cuppa.

"Being a freemason charity is close to my heart. The Masonic Charitable Foundation does some amazing unseen work in the local community.

"Including some of society’s most important issues through grants to local charities, hospices, children and young adults, later life care for the elderly and international disaster relief.

"So please give what you can, whether it be £1 or £100 or even just a share on social media. It could save someone’s life.

"I have been DJing for over 20 years and can’t think of a better way to bring people together to have a great time and raise money."

Mr Hadwin has set himself a target of raising £2,000 and has set up a fundraising page to support his efforts. To support him, click here.