After overcoming addiction and rebuilding his life, Lee Middleton is now helping men across Salford open up about their struggles.
Lee Middleton, an Eccles dad of four, once lived a life consumed by drink and drugs, a destructive cycle that nearly cost him his marriage and family. It wasn’t until he reached out for counselling and eventually discovered fitness that everything began to change.
Lee Middleton said: “I had previously lived a life of drink and drugs, which nearly cost me my marriage. But thankfully, I sought help through counselling therapy and then fitness, which literally changed my life for the better, allowing me to become a better husband and father to my four children.”
Today, Lee is a qualified personal trainer and a hugely valued part of Eccles Cleaner and Dryer (CAD) – a men’s mental health and fitness group that’s become a lifeline for men across Salford.
Every Friday from 6.15pm to 8pm, he leads free boxing and fitness sessions at Eccles Boxing School, followed by “the circle”, a one-hour group discussion where participants can speak openly about their week in a supportive environment.
The initiative, originally set up after the tragic death of Manchester dad Chris Drysdale, was created to support men dealing with mental health issues, addiction or the pressures of everyday life. Lee was introduced to the project by Anthony Pythian, a professional boxer he had trained with, and saw an opportunity to give back.
The mission is also deeply personal for him. Around the time Eccles CAD was being established, he lost a close friend to drug addiction.
Lee said: “ That loss strengthened my commitment to give something back. To support others who may be struggling with mental health, addiction or simply the pressures of everyday life.
“At CAD, we believe the group can be a lifeline. It gives men the chance to connect with like-minded people, focus on health and fitness, and most importantly, open up without fear of judgment.”

For many of the men who walk through the door, those weekly sessions are about far more than just boxing and weights. They’re about building strength not just physically, but mentally and emotionally too. And for Lee, seeing that transformation is the most rewarding part.
Lee said: “We know the hardest step is walking through the door, but once you do, you’ll be welcomed by a friendly group of lads, many of whom have been where you are and are now reaping the benefits of fitness, open discussions, and mutual support.”
Looking ahead, Lee hopes to grow Eccles CAD and eventually expand the project across the North West and one day, nationwide.
His vision is to see support groups like CAD become a regular part of men’s lives, offering not only a safe space to talk but also a sense of purpose, friendship and hope. He wants every man, no matter their background or what they’re going through, to know that help is out there and that they don’t have to face their struggles alone.
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