THE chairman of Malvern Hills District Council has received a royal message of support as he prepares to embark on his charity hike to raise awareness of mental health issues.

Cllr John Raine contacted Prince Harry to praise him for his work in challenging the stigma around mental health and inform him of his own efforts in tackling the issue.

On Thursday, September 1, Cllr Raine set out on his ten-day Hike for Health and Happiness, a 130-mile walk taking in every ward across the district.

His aim is to to raise money for local mental health organisations Positive Thoughts, Jigsaw and Link Nurseries, and he also hopes to encourage people to talk more about mental health issues.

He has now received a letter from Prince Harry’s office to say how touched His Royal Highness was to hear of Cllr Raine’s efforts and to wish him every success with the hike.

Cllr Raine said: “Prince Harry is someone who has been at the forefront of challenging the social stigma that exists around mental health and ensuring it does not prevent people from seeking the help they need.

"I’m delighted to receive his best wishes and I am now looking forward to getting out there and raising as much awareness and money for three very worthy causes as I possibly can.”

He will be joined on the walk by his wife Susan, police officers and fellow councillors.

People can keep up to date with Cllr Raine’s progress during the ten day hike by following @Hiking4Health on Twitter and checking the Malvern Hills District Council Facebook page.

To donate to Cllr Raine's walk, visit mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/hike4health.