More than £1,700 has been raised at a musical festival to help a town’s mental health support line.

The Railway Tavern in Yaxham Road, Dereham held a reggae and ska festival in late August to help the Listening Post, a texting line that allows people to get free and confidential mental health support.

The service is part of a national network called Shout, and was set up by Tracey and George Rae and Lyn Milns, in response to the 2017 death of Mr and Mrs Rae’s son, Jordie.

Dereham Times: The Railway Tavern in Dereham raised £1700 at its reggae and ska festival on August 27The Railway Tavern in Dereham raised £1700 at its reggae and ska festival on August 27 (Image: Paul Sandford)

The trio is aiming to raise £5,000 by the end of 2023.

Mr Rae said called the support shown at the festival "fantastic". He said: "To see the support from Dereham is amazing. From people who donated prizes to money, and to Paul for his help, we could not do this without them.” 

The festival included an auction, raffle, live music and DJs.  

Performers included John O’Shea, the lead singer of Moochers UK.

 *Anyone feeling low or struggling to cope can access the service by texting LP to 85258.