BEN Pearce, a top music producer and disc jockey from Trafford, has spoken frankly about his battle with depression, which has forced him to cancel his upcoming shows for 2016.

Ben, who grew up in Sale, admits in his Facebook announcement that his condition has led to him contemplating suicide.

Ben, who had a top ten hit in 2013 with 'What I Might Do', said: "It is with a deep regret I am cancelling all my upcoming shows for 2016.

"I’ve battled with depression for the past few years and despite professional help I have reached a place where I know this is sadly the only choice I’m left with.

"It has nearly pushed me to saying goodbye altogether a few times and now more than ever I feel that is a huge risk.

"It’s affected every part of my life, I never used to have social or performance anxiety and now I suffer with it terribly.

"It is real, it isn’t talked about enough in society or the music industry and I hope my fans and fellow industry members can understand my decision.

"It can be easy to hide behind your social media or intoxicants and pretend it isn’t happening but that doesn’t help in the long run."

He plans to return to performing.

He said: "This isn’t a goodbye forever at this stage; this is taking the time and the steps necessary to make an attempt at recovery towards leading a healthy mental state of mind.

" I may still be making music, I’m not sure yet what will happen. I hope I can come back from this, I know deep down I am truly grateful and lucky to be able to do this for a living."