Former Norwich City striker and now boxing star Leon McKenzie is to open up about his battles with depression at an event later this month.

The 38-year-old is one of a number of speakers at It's A Man Thing, an all-day event at the Forum, Norwich focusing on men's mental health.

Mr McKenzie will discuss his personal journey of how he has fought depression throughout his career on the pitch and in the ring.

He said: 'I think there are so many avenues to look at when discussing mental health in men.

'There is a lot of pride involved with some men and I think many see it as a sign of weakness to admit to having troubles.'

The former City forward has spoken candidly in the past about his fight with depression, and will welcome questions at the event.

He added: 'No matter what somebody's field of work is, they can be affected by depression, whether they play professional sports like I did, or whether they work in a bank.

'My journey is an unusual one. At one point I lost everything. I lost my identity, so I hope people will be interested to hear about it and it will help them with their own problems.'

Mr McKenzie admits he still has bad days, but hopes his self-coined motto of 'fight it' will help inspire others with mental health issues.

'No matter what you are going through, if you fight you can be successful in what you do, and the first step to that is talking,' he added.

Layla Dickenson, of event organisers Norfolk Mind, said: 'It's a Man Thing will combine fun, games and great prizes with informative speakers and workshops, discussing the challenges faced by young men's emotional and mental health and listening to individual journeys of illness and recovery.

'It's all free and everyone is welcome.'

It's A Man Thing is at the Forum in Norwich from 10am to 4pm on August 31.