ALISTER Brown has revealed how competing in duathlon has helped him to manage his mental illness as he continues to represent his country in the sport.

The 27-year-old from Offenham suffers from depression and anxiety but refuses to let that hold him back.

After taking up duathlon when he was 21, Brown qualified for the Great Britain age-group team at his first attempt in 2014.

Brown has competed on the European and world stage with his best result coming at the 2016 ETU Powerman Long Distance Duathlon European Championships in Denmark where he finished eighth.

He said the sport which consists of running and cycling has been key to helping him deal with his inner demons.

“When I was 25 I was prescribed anti-depressants after suffering with my mental health,” Brown said.

“I eventually threw away the tablets and found different ways to cope which is mainly cardio sport where my heart-rate is elevated for long periods of time. That equates to endurance sports and duathlon.

“I have written a number of blogs about how sport can be used as a tool to support mental health for the charity Rethink Mental Illness which I’m a keen advocate of.

“I think health is sometimes overlooked in today’s society and one of my passions is helping people to realise the importance of health and how sport can promote good mental as well as good physical health.”

Brown trains five days a week on average which he fits around his job as a business support co-ordinator for the National Trust.

But he admits he is in need of sponsorship to keep his dream alive of competing ETU Sprint Duathlon European Championships and ITU Sprint Duathlon World Championships next year which he reckons will set up him back more than £2,000.

“I am currently totally self-funded,” he said.

“My aim is to compete at both world and European championships in 2019 and will need help to fund both and ongoing costs.

“You should sponsor me because I am honest, passionate and ambitious.

“I’m good at making the most of what I have and at staying positive when things get tough.”

To sponsor Brown, call 07506 554935 or email alistercbrown@gmail.com