A KINDHEARTED dad who lost his friend to suicide hopes a stand-up comedy show will help save young lives.
Rich Price has organised StandUp4PAPYRUS, a night of comedy and live music at Sixways Stadium in Worcester on Saturday, September 3.
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Mr Price of Rushwick, near Worcester, is to try his hand at stand-up comedy to raise funds for PAPYRUS Prevention of Young Suicide and provide some light when, for some, all seems dark.
The doors open at 7pm ready for the start at 7.30pm.
The 43-year-old took to the stage in 2019 for the same cause, helping raise £3,000 for the charity he holds close to his heart after the suicide of his friend the year before.
He said he wanted as many people as possible to come along to raise money for the cause, promising 'a seat for everyone'.
This time he’s not alone. Britain’s Got Talent Finalist and comedy impressionist Danny Posthill will also perform at the fundraiser which also features live music, a raffle and an auction.
The line-up consists of Birmingham funny man James Cook, Britain’s Got Talent Finalist Danny Posthill and the city's own Mr Price, all hosted by comedy great Ryan Gough.
With more Worcester support provided by 80s pop tribute duo Mel & Him to provide a great set to dance the night away after the comedy.
Mr Price, a married father-of-one says he has roots in the city and is proud of his Dines Green upbringing.
The former Christopher Whitehead pupil said: "Growing up in the green made you mentally tough, but we didn’t have social media to knock us down.
"It’s frightening to see how many people struggle with mental health and how historically thought it best to keep it to themselves.
"I’m a believer in trusting your friends and family to talk to about all the struggles you are going through, and hope that our upcoming event further promotes this as well as raising money for PAPYRUS.
"Losing my friend in 2018 was a low point in my life, PAPYRUS offer help and guidance to those struggling with suicidal thoughts as well as providing training focussed on awareness of those who are struggling and how to help them. They literally talk people out of taking their own lives, imagine having to do that."
He added: "This event has come together through a small team of volunteers and a few companies who were kind enough to sponsor the event, OGL Computer, P.A. Customs and Resilient Group, without these sponsors we would have really struggled to get this off the ground so yes,
"I’m incredibly grateful to them. Our website standup4.co.uk holds all the information on the event, the charity, the acts as well as links to order tickets from Worcester Warriors box office so please have a look."
The event tickets can indeed be purchased from Worcester Warriors box office online or by calling them on 01905 459309.
If you are not able to go, you can still help by donating to PAPYRUS, texting 5standup to 70085 to donate £5, textoing 10standup to 70085 to donate £10 or texting 20standup to 70085 to donate £20.
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