TV star Jeff Brazier has hit the road to promote mental health and walking across south Essex.

Mr Brazier says that people “desperately” need the chance to reconnect and get outside more often following the Covid pandemic.

He has been holding the exercise and chatting gatherings up and down the country, including one in Hockley with organisations United in Kind and Everyone Active. The TV presenter also worked with Southend United for a chat and ramble on Saturday at Priory Park.

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The 42-year-old, who previously played football for both Billericay Town and Canvey Island, said: “We had about 40 people each day and I have had so much great feedback from people saying it’s just what they needed.

“We need to see more men coming along, but I know we are often less forward when it comes to getting things off their chest.

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“I know people are scared about coming out again after the pandemic.

I think we’ve forgotten and stopped connecting with our neighbours.

“If we are not working or using devices, we all tend to walk around looking down, but it needs to change.”

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Mr Brazier made his name on shows such as Shipwrecked, and had two children with the late reality TV star Jade Goodey.

He is also a lifecoach and a presenter for BT Sport.

Mr Bazier added: “We would have said it was nice, previously, to walk and chat and reconnect, but now I feel it’s so necessary.

“There are a number of benefits including getting fresh air and for some people it could be the first time in a while that they’ve had someone listen to them.

“I just want to champion getting people together as I can see it’s drastically needed.”

He said the walkers are keen to grab selfies with him and that he gets as much out of it as the rest of the attendees.

Mr Brazier, who is also a guest presenter on ITV show Sunday Scoop, has appeared on This Morning and has become an ambassador for People’s Postcode Lottery