MAKING money is what businesses do and now they are being called on to raise dough of a different kind.

A Bolton Business Bake-off, inspired by the popular television series, is being staged at Bolton College.

And organisers want businessmen and women to swap the boardroom for the professional kitchens of the college's Signature Restaurant to take part in the fun contest and raise awareness of mental health issues and money for Mhist.

Mhist is a Bolton based charity which helps people with mental health problems to put strategies and plans in place so that they are able to deal with problems more effectively in future.

It provides much needed support groups and therapies to help people who suffer along with their careers and families.

The idea was first cooked up on The Bolton Tweet UP designed to bring businesses together on the social media site Twitter.

Among the organisers of the charity bake-off is Paddy McGrath who had mental health issues, which he was able to overcome himself.

Today he now gives inspiring talks and is hoping this bake-off will not only support the charity but encourage people to talk about mental health issues.

Paddy, now 36, from Bolton, started suffering mental health problems after university connected to his job and relationship ­— so much so he even considered the prospect of taking his own life. And the lack of understanding when he tried to talk about them meant he was forced to cope alone.

He managed to overcome his mental health issues and says he is pleased that it is now being recognised more particularly regarding causes and treatments.

Paddy said he was reluctant to take medication after seeing the effects, in this case sedation, had on someone close to him

Paddy said: "I did not want to be like that.

"I used alternative therapies because of that. Medication does help, but now doctors are recognising the benefits of exercise, green spaces and a more holistic approach, which when my mum had issues, it was trying to categorise them."

They are also providing a prize for the best baker, which will be a meal for two at their restaurant.

The Bake off will take place at 5.30pm on April 18.

Bakers from various Bolton Businesses will have a couple of hours to create either 12 biscuits, cupcakes, or brownies.

Whilst the baking is taking place a speed networking and open networking event in the restaurant and ­— the bar will be open!

Businesses who want to take part and raise some money for Mhist email Sophie@superlogoboy.com with your name and company name.