HUNDREDS of people queued outside a tattoo studio in Leigh as they waited to get inked-up to raise cash for a mental health charity.

Nearly 400 people passed through the doors of Oliver J Tattoo in London Road to support the studio's bid to fundraise for South East Central Essex Mind.

The busy staff, who were joined by other artists, were rushed off their feet as they gave tattoos to the hundreds of customers in just 13 hours.

The event, which was held on Friday, saw a total of £11,717 raised for Mind, which gives support and advice to people struggling with their mental health.

Customers were offered a semicolon tattoo, which is used as a tool to raise awareness of suicide, depression, and all mental health issues.

Studio owner, Oliver Greenhill, said: "Mind is a charity that is very close to my heart on a personal level as well as others.

"I am lucky to say now I overcame that dark cloud, but I still treat it with the respect it commands from me and will never forget that battle that consumed me for so long.

"It is amazing how many people came to get tattooed or even just donate.

"People often get a semicolon tattoo to remind themselves to stay strong, to remember the losses of loved ones, and to show their support for others.

"It is used when an author could've chosen to end their sentence but chose not to."

Mr Greenhill says there are plans in place to hold another fundraising day for Mind next year.

He added: "We have some big shoes to fill now with so much money raised and a target to beat.

"Next year, more needles, more artists, and more money raised fitting everyone in.

"Thank you to everyone for the support."

Robyn Blackwood, income generation and communications manager at Mind, added: "We are blown away by the support for this incredible event, Oliver and fellow artists at Oliver J Tattoo Studio worked tirelessly to raise mental health awareness and vital funds for our local mental health services.

"This show of community and kindness was a fitting way to mark World Suicide Prevention Day and raise awareness of September being Suicide Prevention Awareness Month.

"We are so grateful to the team and everyone who joined the queue, even in the rain."