A DOCTOR based in Didcot is braving the boxing ring to help fight the stigma of mental illness.

Psychiatrist Andrew Molodynski will slug it out at South Moreton Boxing Club in a charity bout to raise funds for the charity Restore.

The father-of-two said by doing something unusual for a doctor he will highlight the plight of mental health sufferers who are keen to get back to work.

Dr Molodynski, 42, who works for Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, has already received support from Prime Minister David Cameron – a signed bottle of port which will be raffled off.

Dr Molodynski said: “Doctors are generally opposed to boxing because of the injuries it can cause.

“I decided to do something to get people to realise that mental health affects us all.

“The stigma around these conditions is enormous – few people want to talk about it or even understand how isolating it is for the person who is suffering.

“It doesn’t help that mental health charities are treated differently to those for physical health problems.

“You’re unlikely to see tens of thousands of people taking part in runs wearing T-shirts for relatives who have suffered with mental health issues the way you would for certain other conditions, such as cancer.

“The majority of people who have suffered severe mental health episodes are very keen to return to some form of meaningful activity and with support they are fully capable of doing this and contributing to society.”

The psychiatrist has been involved in the sport at an amateur level for the past five years.

Dr Molodynski, from Wantage, will be fighting former London firefighter Gary Summerfield on Saturday. He hopes the clash will raise thousands of pounds for Restore, which runs a centre on Didcot’s Fleet Meadow estate.

Martin Realey, chief executive of the Oxford-based charity, said he was delighted to have the psychiatrist’s support.

He added: “Andrew has been actively involved in our Didcot-based Fleet Meadow Recovery Group and has seen the benefits social activities can have on people’s mental health.

“Boxing is a sport where no-one can hide – it’s not like a team game where you can rely on the strength and support of others when you are struggling.

“Much like mental health, it’s about having the courage to take a step forward and face the fight.

“I admire any individual that steps into the arena – and we are very proud to be supporting Andrew.”

Restore provides rehabilitation, employment and training support for people suffering from schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression and anxiety.

For further information or to make a donation visit restore.org.uk/2015/rumble-for-restore