Preston striker Louis Moult lost his mother as a teenager to alcoholism, and admits the experience led him to coop himself in his room for a year as he struggled to come to terms with the loss.
He is now a successful footballer, playing in the Championship with a happy family life, but the memories of those tougher times have led him to help others.
Moult works with the North End Community department, volunteering his time at a homeless charity in the city.
“My mum was incredible, very loving, but the alcohol got the better of her.” Moult told BBC Breakfast.
“When I see other people going through similar situations, I’m very sympathetic. Preston North End as a club is very good with the community, I worked with the Foxton Centre in Preston. They’re incredible.
“I’m very lucky to sit with my fiancee and two kids, I’ve got them and they’re there for me. I feel places like the Foxton Centre give people an opportunity to speak and get hope. Just to have a friend.”
