A Penzance father, who cured his depression and anxiety by taking up trail running, is offering counselling and coaching to help others with similar issues.

Andrew Phillips, a builder by trade, took up running the Cornish coastal path when he was experiencing difficulty facing everyday life – often finding it a challenge to leave the house.

Andrew said: “I have suffered from anxiety and panic attacks for 20 years. Running became my meditation and I found it an amazing way to achieve physical and mental wellbeing.”

When a friend of his started to experience mental health issues, Andrew suggested a coached run as a means of breaking the mental chains. After his friend progressed to make a full recovery, Andrew decided that he should use his skills to help and coach others.

Andrew added: “I want to help people let go of their limitations. There are no expectations, as well as no limitations on how much a person can achieve. I don’t just deal with the super fit; I can help everyone who wants to be helped.

“I specialise in working with people who suffer from stress, depression, and anxiety; I get them to see how their mind really works.”

One person who has benefitted from Andrew’s coaching and counselling is mother-of-three Sarah Newing, who came to Andrew suffering from anxiety, depression and panic attacks.

Sarah said: “Meeting Andrew has helped me beyond words. With his support and guidance, he’s shown me how to deal with my anxiety head one and not let it control my life. It’s been very life changing for me.”

Andrew offers one to one coaching, group coaching sessions and running retreats from accommodation at Praa Sands. Running up to 16 miles a day, Andrew also offers coaching and training to runners of all capabilities.

“There are 68 miles of local coastline to run in west Cornwall, with some exhilarating scenery. I offer counselling alongside running, to help people overcome their fears,” he added.

“I provide a method that can improve oneself physically and mentally, it really is a winning combination.”

Andrew can be contacted through his website at www.ultramindcoaching.co.uk

Pictured, from left, after completing the 44-mile Classic Quarter Endurance Race from The Lizard to Land’s End, Sarah Newing, Andrew Phillips and Hayle personal trainer Tracey Waite.