Chesterfield's Gary Topley sets up walking group to aid those with drink problems

Recovering alcoholic Gary Topley, of Chesterfield, aims to make a difference with his Step 2 Sobriety group.

The 37-year-old said: “It is aimed at those who are trying to get sober and can get out walking, those who care for people who drink and anyone else affected.

“The walks will be any length depending on interest and fitness – obviously some will be longer than others – and will be done on a regular basis.”

Explaining his inspiration for setting up the group, Gary said: “I’ve been walking in the Peak District which has helped me clear my head and realise how peaceful it is.”

Gary has now been sober for seven years following a long battle with booze.

He was taken into care when he was two-years-old then later adopted partly because of his mother’s drink problems.

This affected him later in his life.

Gary started drinking when he was just 14 and became dependant on alcohol until his late 20s.

Now free from booze, Gary spends much of his time helping others who are battling alcoholism.

For more information about Gary’s story, visit www.garytopley.co.uk or search for Gary Topley Alcohol Awareness Specialist on Facebook.

If you would like to join Gary’s walking group, email [email protected] or call him on 07834629073.