Footballers from North Wales have raised almost £4,000 by taking part in a seven-a-side tournament.

The tournament, which took place at Pwllheli Rugby Club on Sunday, was organised to raise awareness of, and funds for, the DPJ Foundation, set up to help farmers facing mental health issues.

Marc Jones and his friend Dafydd Jones wanted to do something to appeal to men in the area, and thought a seven-a-side football tournament would fit the bill.

Marc said: “We wanted to do something to let people know there is support available if you are suffering with poor mental health and that you shouldn’t have to suffer alone. We came up with the idea of a football tournament as this would bring people together whilst raising funds for the DPJ Foundation.”

Dafydd added: “We are extremely grateful for the support that we have received from our community and the interest shown in the event. We initially thought we might get a handful of teams wanting to take part – we had 32! That presented us with a bit of a challenge getting hold of enough goals and bibs, but both of these have been donated to us through sponsorship, as have raffle prizes.

“We are grateful to Pwllheli Rugby Club for hosting the event and allowing us to put on some food and music in the evening. We were really pleased the group Bwncath agreed to get involved. We wanted to raise awareness of mental health in the community and the need to speak up - we feel that we have definitely done that.”

The DPJ Foundation was established five years ago in Pembrokeshire following the death by suicide of Daniel Picton Jones. Since then, the charity has expanded to deliver mental health awareness training and a 24/7 confidential helpline that can be accessed by phone or text called “Share the Load”. The DPJ Foundation also provides free counselling to people within the agricultural community when they need it and where they need it.

Kate Miles, charity manager of the DPJ Foundation said: “We are so pleased to be able to support Marc, Dafydd and the team with the football tournament to show people help is available and is easy to access. We are here to help with anything that worries you no matter how big or small. If you do not feel like yourself, are going through a challenging time in a relationship, feeling alone or isolated, trying to deal with bereavement, grieving or anything else that worries you, if it’s a small or big issue, we can help. Do not think you are alone. We are here, every hour of the day, every day of the year. And we won’t judge you or your situation.”

Speaking after the event, Marc said: “It went great! Everyone wanted to do it again next year.”

The football tournament has raised £3,925. If you would like to donate, visit www.gofund.me/61d54654