A WIRRAL man who had dreams of becoming a professional footballer has spoken out about the impact of Hillsborough in a new book.

Journalist Matthew Siddle, from Wallasey, has revealed how his dreams of becoming a footballer were cut short the day he joined other Liverpool FC fans at the Leppings Lane end of the Hillsborough stadium on April 15, 1989.

Matt says the harrowing events of that day ended his chance of a life in football.

He then spiralled into years of heavy drinking, drug abuse and a debilitating mental health battle.

But Matt has now published a book about his experiences including Hillsborough in a bid to help others.

The title 'Destined For Football' has the word 'Football' crossed out and replaced by 'Faith'.

In the book Matt has said becoming a Christian helped him find happiness and peace.

He told the Globe: "I suppose the inspiration for the book was how I found my faith and I wanted to show my experiences of mental health to help reduce the stigma of mental health in society.

"I wanted to show how faith can help you stay well.

"Also, it's important to show young people the dangers of smoking cannabis and drinking heavily."

His mental health issues were confirmed in 1995 when as a student at Hull University he was diagnosed as bipolar.

Despite his difficulties he completed a communications and media degree and went on to finish a post-graduate in journalism.

Matt added: "Like a lot of students I was drinking and smoking cannabis.

"I was doing it far too much and I think it does eventually affect your mental state.

"And Hillsborough was definitely a major factor in how things turned out."

Being such a devoted football fan, it was hardly surprising Matt's first delusion was football related.

He said: "It was after Hillsborough and I was convinced I was going to play for Liverpool and give all my wages to the Hillsborough Campaign for Justice.

"In the book I describe how during this period I was utterly convinced it was going to happen."

It was Easter 2008 when his life turned around when he found faith.

During this time Matt also accepted that his bipolar would be easier to manage once he had given up alcohol.

He said: "Like many people I've found it hard over the years - it's been far from easy.

"I really hope that the book will help others - even if it's just one person it will have been worth it."

The book is available to buy from Amazon and www.destinedforfaith.co.uk