Tackling mental health stigma is the key message of a high high-profile awareness event taking place in Carlisle today.

As part of World Mental Health Day, the city centre has been taken over by organisations offering advice and support.

Cumbria County Council representatives also used the occasion to sign a Time to Change pledge, committing to support employees with mental health problems and encourage its workforce to talk openly about their feelings, without facing stigma from others.

The event has been organised by Carlisle Eden Mind, Cumbria Police, People First Independent Advocacy and the World Health Innovation Summit (WHIS), aim to bring the messages behind World Mental Health Day into the local community.

Carlisle mayor Trish Vasey, who is a strong supporter of Carlisle Eden Mind, addressed the crowds, calling on people in all walks of life to feel comfortable talking about mental health.

As well as information stalls, there was also a pop-up cafe, yoga and bowling sessions and Time to Change cinema.

Gareth Presch, founder of WHIS, said: “We feel it's important as a society that we work together to help those facing challenging times with their mental health. This year we are looking at wellbeing in the workplace and we have a number of informative activities to support those challenges we all face on a daily basis."

The event is supported by Carlisle City Council and Cumbria Community Foundation.