A CHAMPION golfer is aiming for a tee-riffic success as he bids to raise more than £2,500 for charity.

Marc Simants aims to raise the money for Action on Depression with a charity golf day on Monday at Dunbar Golf Club.

The reigning club champion has firsthand experience of how people with depression often suffer without others knowing.

And he is hoping that by shining the spotlight on mental health it will raise awareness about the condition.

He said: “Having spent time in hospital due to severe depression I am very aware of how a lot of people struggle with an illness that no one else can see.

“Looking back I wish I hadn’t held it all in for so long and had spoken to someone about how I was feeling.” The event is already a sellout, with 80 golfers from across the county taking part.

As well as prizes for every hole, the day will be topped off with a dinner and raffle; the top prize being a one-to-one golf lesson around St Andrews with PGA Professional Alastair Love.

Over the years, Marc has also come to realise the importance of sport in alleviating his symptoms and improving his wellbeing.

“When you are depressed it is difficult to be motivated to even leave the house,” he said.

“My GP recognised the role golf had in improving my mood as it got me back out and in contact with people again.” Based in Edinburgh, Action on Depression runs a number of services for people across Scotland, from online courses and web chats to weekly self-help support groups and mental health first aid courses.

Alex Stobart, acting chief executive for Action on Depression, praised Marc’s efforts.

He said: “We are a small charity tackling a big problem.

“As many as one in five people will suffer from depression at some point in their lives and in Scotland two people die by suicide each day.

“For every £100 the golf day raises we’ll be able to offer someone the chance to attend a six-week course that teaches skills to help them manage their mood and mental well-being.” To support the charity text AODN11 plus either £1, £2, £5 or £10 to 70070. To find out more about the charity’s work see actionondepression.org