An Ipswich businessman has helped raise thousands of pounds for Suffolk Mind through the sales of his weird and wacky Hawaiian-style shirts. 

John Parnell uses his online store 'Bad Shirt Club' to raise money for the charity – donating £1 from every sale.

Sales from the site have raised £2,000 Suffolk Mind since the start of 2024 which also includes the sales of shorts, jackets and hats.

Every purchase also includes a 'Toolkit' card containing tips on how to meet your 12 physical and emotional needs.

One of Mr Parnell's many bad shirtsOne of Mr Parnell's many bad shirts (Image: Contributed)

Mr Parnell is also the founder of Ipswich-based digital marketing agency Generate Leads Online, which has sponsored events for Suffolk Mind. 

His flamboyant fabrics are designed to catch attention and encourage conversation around mental health following the death of his best friend, Aine Kerlin, in 2022.

John Purnell lost his best friend, Aine Kerlin (right) in 2022John Purnell lost his best friend, Aine Kerlin (right) in 2022 (Image: John Purnell)

Mr Parnell said: “Mental health has always been something close to my heart – and ever since we’ve lost Aine I’ve wanted to do everything I can to support the amazing organisations trying to make a difference.

“Suffolk Mind do some incredible work in not only supporting those in need of help, but in training people about the signs and causes behind mental ill health.

Jon Neal, CEO of Suffolk MindJon Neal, CEO of Suffolk Mind (Image: Suffolk Mind)

Jon Neal, the chief executive of Suffolk Mind, said: “All of us at Suffolk Mind are very grateful to John and his team for their continued support.

“Bad Shirt Club’s products aren’t just a fun way of expressing your individuality, they help raise awareness of mental health and encourage important conversations.

“There’s definitely an argument that they help people meet their needs for community and attention, too – they’re a talking point for sure."